Useful Adversaries

Rating:
Summary: A great contribution to modern politcal thought
Review: I had the distinct pleasure of taking several courses taught by Dr. Christensen in the early '90's when he was a professor at Cornell University. Aside from the fact that he was a great teacher (somewhat unique in my experience), he was a remarkably creative, open thinker, in a field that is frequently stodgy. "Useful Adversaries" captures this spirit in an eloquent, innovative book. Christensen's unique two-tiered approach to international relations fills many of the gaping holes in both realist, and neo-liberal theory. While clearly a realist, he wisely acknowledges that domestic politics can drive decision making within certain external boundaries.

A significant contribution to international relations theory, and a must read for any serious student of the field.