INTRODUCTION TO INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THEORY AND APPROACH

International relations as a field of study has developed since the post-World War I era with the aim of understanding the dynamics between states. In its early stages, the classical approach emerged as a normative and philosophical framework to explain state actions within the international system. This approach emphasized the importance of moral values, principles of international law, and ethical awareness in diplomacy. Thinkers such as Grotius and Kant helped shape the conceptual foundation
that emphasized idealism and legal order in international relations. The classical approach also started from the assumption that state actors could act rationally to achieve peace. The study of international relations was more reflective and prioritized an understanding of the moral motives behind foreign policy. The classical approach remains an important foundation in shaping normative
discourse in contemporary international relations studies.