The SAGE Handbook of Diplomacy
- Costas M. Constantinou - University of Cyprus, Cyprus
- Pauline Kerr - Australian National University, Australia
- Paul Sharp - University of Minnesota, Duluth, USA
International Relations
The SAGE Handbook of Diplomacy provides a major thematic overview of Diplomacy and its study that is theoretically and historically informed and in sync with the current and future needs of diplomatic practice . Original contributions from a brilliant team of global experts are organised into four thematic sections:
- Section One: Diplomatic Concepts & Theories
- Section Two: Diplomatic Institutions
- Section Three: Diplomatic Relations
- Section Four: Types of Diplomatic Engagement
The distinctive feature of this excellent collection is the way in which it combines the conventional, practice-oriented side of Diplomatic Studies with a very high level of theoretical sophistication and a cheerful openness to new approaches to diplomacy. The editors have assembled a stellar cast of authors and produced a book that deservedly will attract a wide readership both in the academy and in ministries of external affairs.
Comprehensively global in its scope and ambition, this Sage Handbook will have great appeal for both scholars and practitioners. With its 53 chapters ranging in substance from the very traditional (e.g. the meaning of 'diplomatic relations') to the very modern (e.g. 'digital diplomacy' and 'celebrity diplomacy'), and in style from the relentlessly abstract (e.g. 'conceptualizing diplomatic agency') to the sharply empirical (e.g. 'improving embassy performance'), it has something for everyone in the international relations business, and deserves a place on all our shelves.
At a time when global crises abound, the Sage Handbook of Diplomacy is a major contribution to our understanding of this profession so vital for a future of peace in the world.
Occasionally an edited volume comes along that connects the ideas and questions of leading scholars with insights and suggested answers in ways that shine a bright light on changes in diplomacy theory and practice. Such volumes contain breadth and depth. They offer observable continuities with the past. They constructively analyze trends and conceptual categories. They reflect learning from diplomatic practice. Their systematic reflections illuminate and re-conceptualize diplomacy. The Sage Handbook of Diplomacy does all this and more. In their “collection of sustained reflections on what it means to practice diplomacy today,” the Editors provide a significant contribution to a literature in which there are few comparable compilations on offer... The Sage Handbook is institutionally priced, but its 53 essays offer good value. Thought provoking content. Abundant references. Blocks of summary key points throughout each chapter. For universities and foreign ministries it is a must buy. Scholars will find it worth the investment
