Beginning with the premise that international relations must be approached from a multinational perspective, The Logic of International Relations introduces students to the idea that transactions between nations are behavioral rather than structural. Building on this perceptual analysis approach, the text discusses how the political consciousness of key nations influences international events, public opinion, and policy choices.

The text also employs an interdisciplinary approach that shows students how international behavior is a result of the interplay of economic, historical, social, and psychological factors.