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Best Books to Study International Relations for UPSC CSE
Study International Relations, as a discipline, is a part of both the UPSC Prelims and Mains syllabus. International Relations, as part of the UPSC Prelims Civil Services Examination, falls under the General Studies Paper II curriculum. This section covers governance and international relations. However, the section on International relations about UPSC Mains is vast and requires a graduate-level understanding of the subject. Thus, having an understanding of international relations is pivotal for candidates wishing to appear for this examination.
The subject offers many themes such as world politics, diplomacy, foreign policy, global institutions, and India’s position in the world arena. Here, we have curated a compilation of the Best books for Studying International Relations for CSE Mains and optional exams, crafted specifically for UPSC, where India features prominently.
Best Suggested Books to Study International Relations for UPSC
Regarding the International Relations sections for UPSC Prelims, aspirants are advised to remain within the set syllabus boundaries. However, those who had selected Political science and International relations as an optional subject should note that this paper demands significantly more understanding than is expected from aspirants who are preparing for UPSC Prelims.
This list of readings is particularly useful for those students who opted for Political Science and International Relations as their optional subjects. Hence, we have shared some best books to study international relations for the UPSC civil services exam.
1. The Globalization of World Politics: An Introduction to International Relations by John Baylis, Steve Smith, and Patricia Owens
This book serves as an introductory international relations textbook. It includes important theories, concepts and actors involved in global politics. In addition to being clearly written, the book is detailed making its contributions towards developing an understanding of systems dynamics very useful.
2. Global Politics by Andrew Heywood
With a comprehensive view of the world's politics, this book captures the essence of various topics like power, globalisation, international organisations, security, and more. The author explains intricate concepts in this book using simple language for the benefit of UPSC aspirants.
3. Theories of Comparative Politics- The Search for a Paradigm Reconsidered by Ronald H. Chilcote
This book offers the theories of comparative politics along with other approaches and paradigms. It also delves into the intricacies of the political system, its institutions, and society as a whole.
4. IGNOU notes on Comparative Politics
The study materials offered by IGNOU on comparative politics are useful for UPSC IAS aspirants. The study materials available at IGNOU can be supplemented with the above study material for UPSC CSE. The study materials cover all themes and issues necessary to enhance comprehension of different political systems and their analysis holistically.
Additional Books to Study for International Relations Topic Preparation
Mentioned below are some additional suggested books that may augment the International Relations topic preparation for UPSC CSE.
a) Theories of International Relations” by Palgrave Publications
This book gives a comprehensive examination of the theories of international relations. It also includes realism, liberalism, constructivism and other relevant approaches to the subject.
b) The Oxford Handbook of International Relations” by Christian Reus-Smit and Duncan Snidal
The Oxford Handbook by Christian Teus-Smit and Duncan Snidal provides the reader with all of the necessary information concerning international relations. Some of the important topics include international relations institutions, security issues, as well as world governance.
c) Understanding International Relations by Chris Brown and Kirsten Ainley
This book outlines the important themes and discussions in international relations. Globalization, terrorism, and human rights are some of the topics discussed in this book. The authors have explained intricate ideas in a simple way which is helpful for UPSC aspirants.
d) Introduction to International Relations: Theories and Approaches” by Georg Sorenson and Robert Jackson
This book serves as an essential building block for international relations. It presents varying schools of thought and evaluates their varied perspective on the nature of International systems.
e) Indian Foreign Policy: An Overview by Harsh Pant
This book presents an overview of the range of factors shaping India's foreign policy, from domestic politics to material capabilities, as well as India's relations with the world.
f) International Relations by Mcgraw Hill Education
The book by McGraw Hill Education offers an insightful and critical overview of the global politics and foreign policy of India, supplemented with case studies and flow charts for better understanding.
Effective Tips to Prepare for International Relations
The following are some tips and strategies for an all-around preparation of International relations-
Know the Syllabus
Start by carefully studying the syllabus of the international relations part for UPSC Mains. Mark out the important topics to streamline your preparation.
Choose Study Materials wisely
Select appropriate and manageable learning resources that encompass a variety of topics within international relations. Carefully go through the prescribed and recommended textbooks along with other study aids tailored for UPSC examinations.
Prepare Notes
As part of your UPSC study routine, focus on drafting brief notes outlining key concepts, theories, and significant events pertaining to international relations. These notes will function as a tool for rapid review in the days leading up to the exam.
Keep abreast with Current Affairs
We all know that current events shape almost every field. So is international relations because it is a very alive and active field. To understand global matters and their bearing on India's foreign policy, familiarise yourself with newspapers, online portals, and periodicals on international relations.
Analyze Case Studies
Explore history's complex diplomacy, international strife, and other critical incidents as a way of mastering current world events. Examine tangible situations to learn global political theories and schema frameworks in order to understand decision-making and its ramifications.
Practice Answer Writing
Practice past year's question papers to improve your writing speed as well as your time management skills while simulating exam conditions. Focus on articulating and structuring each answer so that it has a clear flow, is easy to understand, and all points are covered succinctly within the provided time frame.
Regular Revision
Set aside specific time for revision that concentrates on concepts, key theories, and case studies. Regular revising reinforces what you have learned as well as improves retention.
Attend Mock Tests
Taking regular mock tests with UPSC online course will help you assess your progress and recognise areas that may require additional attention. Mock tests will also expose you to the exam pattern and boost your confidence for the actual examination.
Final Thought
Preparation for the International Relations segment of the UPSC CSE requires staying attuned to global transformations and holding clear analytical frameworks. This can be achieved by consistently reading, understanding what drives India’s foreign policy goals, and attending to current events. Balanced preparation that incorporates static knowledge along with current affairs is ideal for all three stages of the UPSC CSE.


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