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Restraining Power

The Law of Nature and the Theory of International Relations
By David C. Hendrickson
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Brief Description
Restraining Power examines the ethical and strategic dilemmas of sovereign coexistence. Excavating a forgotten tradition of the “law of nature and nations” intended to restrain the violent impulses of states, David C. Hendrickson shows how this perspective emphasizes respect for the rights of other nations. It... Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$5499
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Releases 5th January 2027 (Approx. Date) Pre-order  "Restraining Power" now to secure your copy from our first shipment

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A provocative and erudite history of international political thought—explaining why things have gone so dangerously wrong

A provocative and erudite history of international political thought—explaining why things have gone so dangerously wrong

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Restraining Power examines the ethical and strategic dilemmas of sovereign coexistence. Excavating a forgotten tradition of the “law of nature and nations” intended to restrain the violent impulses of states, David C. Hendrickson shows how this perspective emphasizes respect for the rights of other nations. It provides an essential bulwark of peace in an anarchic world.

All states, Hendrickson argues, have an interest in observing the principles of reciprocity, justice, and good faith, but few have violated them more than the United States. In neglecting these principles, US foreign policy has entered a destabilizing shadow world in which force and fraud are normalized.

At once rigorous and elegantly written, Restraining Power is essential reading for students and scholars of international relations, political philosophy, and history who want to rethink the moral and prudential boundaries of power in global affairs.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781836742463

Publisher: Verso Books

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 08 September 2026

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Verso Books

Edition: Paperback original

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 22.0mm

Width: 153.0mm

Height: 234.0mm

Weight: 393g

Pages: 352

Collections

David C. Hendrickson Education & Reference Non-Fiction Non-Fiction Pre-Orders Politics & Current Affairs Pre-order Books Pre-orders Pre-orders by Release Date

About the Author

David C. Hendrickson is emeritus professor of Political Science at Colorado College and the author of nine books, most recently Republic in Peril: American Empire and the Liberal Tradition. A distinguished scholar and commentator on international relations and US foreign policy, he has written for Foreign Affairs, the National Interest, the American Conservative and the Quincy Institute’s Responsible Statecraft. He served as President of the John Quincy Adams Society in 2022-23.

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