Global Security in the Twenty-first Century: The Quest for Power and the Search for Peace

by Sean Kay

This comprehensive textbook offers a balanced introduction to contemporary security dilemmas. Sean Kay's central theme is the key but evolving role of power within the international system. He surveys the full range of conceptual frameworks for thinking about power and peace, ranging from realism and idealism to constructivism, postmodernism, and feminism. Combining theory and practice, Kay considers a wide array of case studies, including flashpoints in the Middle East, Asia, and Eurasia. He also explores trade and technology, the militarization of space, the privatization of security, the use of sanctions, ethnic conflict, transnational crime, and terrorism. The book goes beyond traditional concepts of security to consider human security in the form of challenges to human rights, democracy, population, health, environment, and energy. Writing in an engaging style, Kay integrates all security challenges in one easily accessible study. He stresses not only current threats such as terrorism and the war in Iraq but also the scope of challenges confronting humanity over the coming decades. By considering the value of a spectrum of approaches in real-world situations, Kay gives readers the tools they need to develop a thoughtful and nuanced understanding of global security.

Genres: Politics, International Relations, Nonfiction

398 pages, Hardcover

First published March 28, 2006

Reviews

[Hagar · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read through this one, paying special attention to specific chapters. I liked Kay's overview of key conflict areas, as well his emphasis on the four major global powers in the 21st century. Despite Kay's often annoying writing style, I think this book does a good job providing a general outlook on current global security challenges. Redundant at times, but still worth reading.