Networked Governance and Transatlantic Relations: Building Bridges through Science Diplomacy: 116 (Routledge Advances in International Relations and Global Politics) - Tapa dura

"This is a must-read pioneering work. It links our understanding of cutting edge science and technology policy issues locally and regionally in the context of today's transatlantic diplomacy and recognizes the power of networks that cross national and physical boundaries."

―Nanette S. Levinson, American University School of International Service

"Paár-Jákli’s work provides a fresh and compelling analysis of an underappreciated aspect of the transatlantic relationship. By highlighting the role of digital networks, the author introduces a dynamic new component in the evolving relationship between North America and Europe. The volume updates transatlantic relations in an interesting and thought-provoking fashion."

―Alberta Sbragia, University of Pittsburgh

In today’s complex and interconnected world, scholars of international relations seek to better understand challenges spurred by intensified global communication and interaction. The complex connectedness of modern society and politics compels us to investigate the pattern of interconnections among actors who inhabit social and political spaces.

Gabriella Paár-Jákli's study aims to advance theory and practice by examining the networks used by specialists in North America and Europe to achieve their policy goals in the area of science and technology. Her book suggests that to overcome policy problems transnationally, three critical factors should be considered. First, as science and technology policy becomes increasingly critical to resolving global issues, it should be regarded as an integral element of the foreign policy process. Second, as liberal international relations theory argues, the increasing role of NGOs must be taken seriously alongside states as vital agents of policy reform. Third, as transatlantic relations remain center to maintaining the global order, they must be reconsidered. Paar-Jakli assesses the role of digital networks as facilitators of regional cooperation. Utilizing various techniques of social network analysis, her research indicates an active and structurally discernible network in cyberspace among transatlantic organizations, and demonstrates the role of virtual networks as facilitators of cooperative arrangements in transatlantic relations.

Paár-Jákli's original research uses social network analysis to investigate transatlantic cooperation, a new approach that will be noteworthy to network and transatlantic scholars as well as policymakers.