First published in 1981, The World of States focuses on the sovereign state. It shows why we continue to have sovereign states and why the sovereign state is not likely to be superseded by any other form of political institution.

Despite some tendencies in international relations towards integration and interdependence, this book argues that the state is still the strongest and most permanent form of international institution. It also considers the extent to which international politics and the international economy operate on the same lines. The sovereign state is seen in relation to diplomacy, international organisations, its own citizens, the problems of making foreign policy, and the themes of integration and interdependence. This volume will be a beneficial read for students and researchers of politics and international relations.