Geopolitics is the study of how the projection of power (ideological, cultural, economic, or military) is effected and affected by the geographic and political landscape in which it operates. Despite the real world relevance of geopolitics, a common understanding of what classical geopolitics is and how it works still lies beyond the reach of both researchers and practitioners. In Classical Geopolitics, Phil Kelly attempts to build a common theoretical model, incorporating a host of variables that reflect the complexity of the modern geopolitical stage. He then analyzes thirteen pivotal but widely differing historical events stretching from the Peloponnesian War to World War II, from the fall of the British and Soviet empires to the contemporary diplomacy of South America. Through this analysis, Kelly tests the efficacy of his model as a comprehensive geopolitical analytical tool that can be used across a broad spectrum of geopolitical contexts and events.
"This book makes an important contribution to the current literature on geopolitics. The theoretical approach it takes is both innovative and stimulating, and it displays an impressive synthesis of existing theoretical ideas. A milestone reinterpretation of geopolitical theory."
University of Reading
"This is an important work. Many teachers of IR tend to dismiss geopolitics as having been overtaken by technology, but Phil Kelly's analysis shows how mistaken they are. He makes a strong case for the applicability of geopolitical analysis to the study of IR, foreign policy, and strategic analysis. A very worthy contribution to the study of IR and security affairs in general."
