Abstract

The article aims to enrich our understanding of the double-concept of "peace/war" in international relations, and of its place in international theory, starting from an examination of its relations with issues of power and freedom. The authors look at history to comprehend the essential features of peace and war in different systems of states as they have historically developed; but they also turn to contemporary international politics to highlight the ways in which both peace and war have changed since the end of the Cold War. Finally, the article investigates the politics of "peace/war" in the international order of today, with particular reference to globalization and the role of American hegemony.