International relations (IR) or International studies (IS) represents the study of foreign affairs and global issues among states within the international system. Initially, international relations as a distinct field of study was almost entirely British-centred. In 1919, the Chair in International Politics established at the University of Wales, Aberystwyth (renamed Aberystwyth University in 2008), from an endowment given by David Davies, became the first academic position dedicated to IR. Democracy influences both the process and the content of defence policy. Thus, in a democratic setup, defence policy is based on a consultative process. Its goals and objectives, as well as many finer details, are often debated in Parliament, the media, by think-tanks and during election campaigns. This process ensures a more participative, inclusive and transparent defence policy. The book is of immense utility to students, teachers, politicians and general readers.