S. Burchill 
The National Interest in International Relations Theory 

This is the first systematic and critical analysis of the concept of national interest from the perspective of contemporary theories of International Relations, including realist, Marxist, anarchist, liberal, English School and constructivist perspectives. Scott Burchill explains that although commonly used in diplomacy, the national interest is a highly problematic concept and a poor guide to understanding the motivations of foreign policy.

Table of Content

Acknowledgements Introduction Origins and Antecedents Conventional Perspectives: Realist Approaches Critical Perspectives: Marxist and Anarchist Approaches Progressive Perspectives: Liberal Approaches Progressive Perspectives: The English School Progressive Perspectives: Constructivism Conclusion Appendix: Tables 1 and 2 Bibliography Index

About the author

SCOTT BURCHILL has taught International Relations at Monash University, Melbourne University, the University of Tasmania and Deakin University. He is co-author of
Theories of International Relations (Third Edition, Palgrave Macmillan 2005) and
Australia in the World (1996).