Holsti defines international politics as a system of interactions involving the use or threat of power. He explores how the structure of this system (e.g., unipolar, bipolar, or multipolar) influences the behavior of its members. 2. Foreign Policy Analysis and "Role Theory"
Unlike purely abstract theories, Holsti uses historical comparisons—such as comparing modern bipolarity to the city-state systems of Ancient Greece—to illustrate broader generalizations about political behavior. Holsti defines international politics as a system of
For students and scholars seeking the or a comprehensive overview, this article examines the key frameworks and enduring contributions of his work. Core Objectives and Methodology Holsti defines international politics as a system of