A small state's guide to influence in world politics

Do small states matter for international relations? Tom Long's book, A small state's guide to influence in world politics, answers this question in the affirmative and argues that small states are important because ‘they constitute, shape, and influence myriad relationships with other states, both large and small’ (p. 3). For Long, small states can achieve international goals and exercise influence if they overcome significant constraints. The author explains that we need to understand small states in the context of their relationships with other states, especially their most salient, asymmetrical relationships. As such, the book defines, theorizes and investigates small states in the context of these unequal relationships, between a small state and a great power. According to Long, it is important to look at the patterns and dynamics of asymmetry as they shape the international environment that small states face. Asymmetry is understood as ‘a significant disparity in material capabilities’ (p. 4).