On Global Learning

Reviews / Votes

'Via an intellectual tour of rare erudition and stunning breadth, Ralph drags American pragmatism from IR's margins to its core, exhorting New Constructivists not only to describe how norms matter, but to evaluate which norms ameliorate pressing global problems. Richly illustrated with examples from security, health and climate governance, supporters and critics alike will have to engage Ralph's powerful thesis.' David McCourt, Department of Sociology, University of California, Davis 'The pragmatist turn in International Relations is well overdue. Global learning among diverse communities is needed to tackle planetary challenges for which twentieth century institutions are no longer fit for purpose. Jason Ralph develops and defends a pragmatist constructivist analysis that shows how that 'learning by doing' can happen. This is an inspiring book for all IR scholars and practitioners, deeply informed by pragmatists a century ago who similarly confronted a world in flux and crisis.' Jacqui True, School of Social Sciences, Monash University 'At a time during which global governance norms stand contested, Jason Ralph's book is essential reading for any scholar or practitioner in need of ethical direction and looking to avoid the trap of moral absolutism. ... Ralph's intellectual brilliance and trust in humankind's capacities to realize the global public good constitutes a visionary alternative to realist scenarios of a self-help world.' Maren Hofius, International Affairs '... for the scholars, diplomats and policy-makers familiar with the region, this book is insightful and will be of great interest.' Johanne Marie Skov, International Affairs