Philip Bobbitt is one of the more interesting thinkers writing on international politics these days. His book, The Shield of Achilles (see IA recommendations, below) is perhaps a bit long, but for those seeking a broad, theoretical account of 21st century geopolitics that runs deeper than facile Hegelianism or reductionist relativism, it is, in my opinion, necessary reading.

For a small sample of Bobbitt, check out his book review in today's New York Times.