The Anarchical Society
Encyclopedia
The Anarchical Society: A Study of Order in World Politics is a 1977 book by Hedley Bull
and a founding text of the so called English School of international relations theory
. The title refers to the assumption of anarchy
in the international system (posited primarily by realists
) and argues for the existence of an international society.
The book also outlines Bull's theory of new medievalism
.
Hedley Bull
Hedley Bull, FBA was Professor of International Relations at the Australian National University, the London School of Economics and the University of Oxford until his death from cancer in 1985...
and a founding text of the so called English School of international relations theory
International relations theory
International relations theory is the study of international relations from a theoretical perspective; it attempts to provide a conceptual framework upon which international relations can be analyzed. Ole Holsti describes international relations theories act as a pair of coloured sunglasses,...
. The title refers to the assumption of anarchy
Anarchy in international relations
Anarchy in International Relations is a concept in International Relations theory holding that the world system is leaderless: there is no universal sovereign or worldwide government. There is thus no hierarchically superior, coercive power that can resolve disputes, enforce law, or order the...
in the international system (posited primarily by realists
Realism (international relations)
In the study of international relations, Realism or political realism prioritizes national interest and security over ideology, moral concerns and social reconstructions...
) and argues for the existence of an international society.
The book also outlines Bull's theory of new medievalism
New medievalism
New medievalism is a term used by Hedley Bull in The Anarchical Society to describe the erosion of state sovereignty in the contemporary globalised world...
.