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International Relations in American Political Science.
Pascal Vennesson [176-194].
Even if the end of the Cold War raised numerous questions on the appropriate theories, or the selection of research topics, international relations remains one of the most dynamic field of study in the U.S. political science. The article presents the study of international relations in the U.S. First, it evokes the historical creation of the field since World War I, and its main characteristics today. In the second part, it traces the evolution of the three major research programs : realism, liberalism and constructivism. Finally, it mentions some methodological explorations and the limits of an internationally successful intellectual endeavor.

Les « relations internationales illicites » continuent de bouleverser le champ de la légalité et de la morale internationales. Aujourd'hui, le phénomène apparaît plus que jamais comme une composante majeure, source de troubles non négligeables, des relations internationales. D'entrée, la définition du sujet révèle la difficulté d'une approche globale. Les relations internationales illicites ne se limitent pas à la seule criminalité internationale, et la multiplicité des facteurs de développement rend le phénomène de plus en plus difficile à cerner. La fin de la guerre froide, la défaillance des structures étatiques de certains pays, l'émergence de nouveaux acteurs, l'apparition de « zones grises » contribuent à l'expansion de ce nouveau fléau. Et si les dangers qu'il représente pour l'équilibre mondial sont depuis longtemps avérés, il appartient désormais aux États de se mobiliser et d'œuvrer pour une véritable moralisation de l'ordre international.

Europe's international position is examined in a broad context of the development of nations & of relations among them. In 1500, Europe was less rich & powerful than the other three civilizations that existed then. The evolution of European global influence & parallel development of the nation-state are sketched. During the 20th century, other powers increased at Europe's expense. US hegemony has threatened European unity since the end of the Cold War; the EU's size since its recent expansion could spoil the community project. E. Taylor

It is argued that certain global changes have led to the emergence of deterritorialized powers, & that a good example of this sort of body without a physical location is the International Francophone Organization (IFO), characterized as a complex institutional system that has moved in rhythm with the world's transformations. The relationship between Francophonie, the IFO, & the concept of the international, global organization is explored. It is contended that while the concept of Francophonie refers to shared language, this shared language itself unites diverse groups into a single organization, creating a multicultural mosaic. Scholars of international relations are said to lack a paradigm to describe a group like the IFO, which manages to combine external & internal factors, macro- & micropolitical dimensions, & both global & local issues. D. Weibel

Discusses study and teaching of international relations in France; academic tradition, a "crossroad-discipline", and British views on French intellectual life; 4 articles. Summaries in English p. 205-6,