World Politics in a New Era [With CDROM and Infotrac]

Facts, theories, and history abound in this textbook! I cannnot say enough good things about it. It is easy to read and well-organized. The authors deliver the content in a way that allows the reader to quickly understand the key concepts and, I might add, with material that is interesting and relevant. It is definitely a book for beginners in the subject of international relations, but because it is so expansive in scope, it is a great reference to have on hand even for the serious policy wonk. Contents include material on the world wars, key political and military leaders, the cold war, regional conflict, recent conflicts, world economics, global issues, international security, and a host of theoretical and analytical approaches to understanding world politics today. The material is applicable to those not just interested in political science, but to any international topic: business, government, non-profit, travel and "voluntourism", liberal arts and social sciences etc.

Unlike most other college textbooks, Spiegel's book treats the student of IR with respect and dignity. If it weren't for this work, my international relations coursework would have been a complete waste of time. Let's get Spiegel out there training his fellow colleagues on how to teach IR with passion and deep insight. Should be required reading in universities across the country and, indeed, the world.