ISBN
978-1529240016Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University PressISBN
978-1529240030Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University PressISBN
978-1529240030Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University Press
Benevolence in International Relations
In this first English-language edition of a sole-authored book from Frédéric Ramel, benevolence is defined as a moral principle which promotes temperance and attention to vulnerability. Ramel unpacks this concept, analyses its received meanings in different contexts and spells out its practical and ethical implications in detail.
In preparing this work for an English-speaking readership, the author undertook extensive revisions and included two additional chapters. It also includes a foreword from Chris Brown, Emeritus Professor of International Relations at the London School of Economics and Political Science. The French edition was published as La Bienveillance Dans Les Relations Internationales.
“Ramel’s insightful exploration demonstrates that sensitivity plays an active and crucial role in international relations. By shifting the focus and drawing on under-examined sources, this book opens new horizons for both scholars and diplomats.” Séverine Autesserre, author of The Frontlines of Peace
"Frederic Ramel has introduced courageous vision in the discourse on international relations, at a time when many nations prefer war and hostility as currencies to conduct global affairs. Ramel advocates reciprocity, solidarity, moderation, dialogue and global common good. We must listen to him if we want humanity to survive and flourish.” Sundeep Waslekar, Author of 'A World without War' ('Entre Guerre et Paix') and President of Strategic Foresight Group
“A fascinating, lucid, and informative exploration of benevolence and its implications for international relations. Ramel offers a fundamental challenge to crude realism, and in its stead elaborates a compelling framework of being and living, of thinking about ourselves and others, and of developing a more appropriate understanding of individual, social, and national interests.” Richard Ned Lebow, King's College London
“This book is a model of creativity driven by curiosity, rigor, and generosity. The book faces moral dilemmas and raises fundamental questions about international ethics. In a world where mistrust has increased and empathy vanished, it is a subtle source of inspiration for both scholars and practitioners. An urgent invitation to search for fruitful ways out and common grounds.” Valérie Rosoux, University of Louvain
Frédéric Ramel is Professor of Political Science at Sciences Po Paris, France.
Introduction
Part 1: Locating a Neglected Concept in International Relations and International Political Theory or Benevolence as a Notion
1. Going back to Sensitivity in International Relations
2. Cultivating Theoretical Reverberations
Part 2: A Moral Sensibility or Benevolence as a Disposition
3. Being Sensitive to Calm
4. Being Sensitive to the World Milieu
Part 3: An International Practice or Benevolence in Action
5. Benevolence in Moderation and Attention: When States Are Not So Cold
6. Benevolence Around Us and Awareness: When Ordinary Individuals Get Involved
Part 4: A Global Orientation or Benevolence as an Extension
7. Keeper of the Good Beyond the Inner Circle
8. Benevolence at the Heart of a Mature Multilateralism
Conclusion: For Subtle Enlightenment in International Relations
