International relations is the study of how states interact with each other and with international organizations, including multinational corporations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). It’s closely related to a number of academic disciplines such as political science, geography, history, economics, sociology and law. Typically, students who complete an international relations degree develop skills in diplomacy, global governance and policy analysis, which they can apply to a range of careers that focus on solving global challenges.
The study of international relations is informed by a variety of theories. Realism is one such theory. Realism posits that state actors know their preferences, order them in an optimal way, and then act to realize those preferences. It also argues that the international environment is anarchic and that states must assume that their neighbors are rational and self-interested, so they will likely engage in conflict with one another.
Other theories of international relations include liberalism and institutionalism. Liberalism posits that states should seek to create an international environment that is free of violence and war, while institutionalists argue that the existence of institutions (such as trade agreements, treaties, and laws) can overcome anarchic tendencies toward conflict.
More recent international relations theories focus on how cultural values, norms and beliefs shape international behavior. These include constructivist theory, Marxism, dependency theory and feminism. The study of international relations aims to understand these influences in order to help shape policies that will result in a more peaceful and equitable world.
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