International Ethics: Concepts, Theories, and Cases in Global Politics

By Mark R. Amstutz

Book Overview

The role of ethics in international relations is a long overlooked and now hotly debated issue. Realists say there is little room for ethics in a world dominated by security risks and national self-interest. Cultural pluralists contend that ethics and morality are relative, depending on the traditions of the society. Idealists are sobered by the complexity of ethical considerations posed by contemporary international challenges.

Nonetheless, ethical dilemmas swirl around the globe and moral norms and actions are embraced. This new text presents the concepts, theories, methods, and traditions of ethical analysis and then applies them to case studies in the areas of human rights, military force, foreign intervention, economic statecraft, and global political justice. Although rooted in political philosophy, this clearly-written study will be of special interest to students and practitioners of international affairs who are concerned with the role of political morality and ethical judgment in global affairs.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0847691535
• ISBN13: 9780847691531
• Release Date: March 1999
• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 1.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.0" x 1.1" x 5.9"

Customer Reviews

Well written and thought provoking

While no book is going to be the last word on this subject - the author definitely raised some important questions with well balanced examples. And its a very good beginning to asking ourselves what does it mean to act morally in face of global anarchy? Is the difference between acting morally breakdown to investing in long term self-interest as opposed to short-term interest? Does moral action parallel the virtuous life of the individual?