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Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC IAS Exam 2024

PWOnlyIAS June 07, 2024 06:40 1634 0

Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC are very important for UPSC aspirants. Check a list of recommended Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC here.

Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC IAS Exam 2024

Political Science and International Relations books for UPSC are crucial for UPSC CSE Exam as they provide a comprehensive understanding of governance structures, political ideologies, international affairs, and diplomacy. 

Political Science and International Relations are integral to the General Studies paper and are instrumental in comprehending contemporary socio-political dynamics, thus the Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC enhances candidates’ chances of success in the competitive examination.

Let us have a look at the Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC that will be helpful for the candidates to prepare for the UPSC CSE Exam. The Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC for Prelims and Mains are also given here.

Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC

Before having a look at the Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC, let us understand the pattern of Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) in the UPSC CSE Exam. 

The UPSC CSE Exam assesses candidates on Political Science and International Relations (PSIR), covering topics like political theory, governance, Indian polity, global politics, and diplomatic relations.

Let us see an overview of Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE), including both Prelims and Mains:

I. Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) in UPSC Prelims

In the Preliminary Examination, the focus is on testing the candidate’s understanding of basic concepts and their ability to analyse current events and developments. 

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The table below contains the overview of Political Science and International Relations subjects in UPSC Prelims Exam:

Topic Description
Indian Polity Understanding of the Constitution, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Parliament, Judiciary, etc.
International Relations Basic understanding of international organisations, treaties, India’s foreign policy, and current affairs.
Current Affairs Recent developments in national and international politics, major events, treaties, and agreements.
Political Theory Basic concepts such as democracy, socialism, liberalism, sovereignty, power, justice, and equality.

II. Political Science and International Relations in UPSC Prelims

In the Main Examination, the focus shifts towards in-depth understanding, critical analysis, and the ability to express ideas coherently. Let us have a look at the overview of Political Science and International Relations subjects in the UPSC Mains Exam.

1. Paper I: Political Theory and Indian Politics

The table below contains the overview of Political Science and International Relations subjects in the Paper I of UPSC Mains Exam:

Topic Description
Political Theory Major theories like liberalism, socialism, Marxism, feminism, etc. with their critiques and contemporary relevance.
Indian Government and Politics Indian Constitution, Federalism, Parliament, Judiciary, Election Commission, Political Parties, Pressure Groups, and Movements.

2. Paper II: Comparative Politics and International Relations

The table below contains the overview of Political Science and International Relations subjects in the Paper II of UPSC Mains Exam:

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Topic Description
Comparative Politics Comparative analysis of political systems, institutions, and processes in different countries.
International Relations Theories of International Relations, Globalization, Foreign Policy of major powers, International Institutions, Conflict, and Cooperation.

Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC Prelims Exam

Political Science and International Relations books for UPSC are vital for UPSC CSE Prelims as they provide comprehensive insights into political systems, governance, and global affairs. Understanding concepts like political ideologies, international relations theories, and geopolitical events helps candidates analyse contemporary issues, enhancing their comprehension and performance in the exam.

Let us have a look at the Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC Prelims Exam.

1. Political Science Books for UPSC Prelims Exam

The table below contains a list of Political Science Books for UPSC Prelims Exam:

Title Author
Indian Polity M. Laxmikanth
Introduction to the Constitution of India D. D. Basu
Our Parliament Subhash Kashyap
Politics in India Since Independence Rajni Kothari
Indian Government and Politics B. L. Fadia
Political Theory O.P. Gauba

2. International Relations Books for UPSC Prelims Exam

The table below contains a list of International Relations Books for UPSC Prelims Exam:

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Title Author
International Relations Rajiv Sikri
World Politics: Trend and Transformation Charles W. Kegley Jr.
Contemporary World Politics Singh & Dubey
International Relations: Perspectives and Themes Viotti & Kauppi
Oxford Handbook of International Relations Reus-Smit & Snidal
Global Politics Andrew Heywood

Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC Mains Exam

Political Science and International Relations books for UPSC are crucial for UPSC CSE  Mains Exam’s General Studies Paper II and Paper III. They provide insights into governance, political systems, international affairs, diplomacy, and global issues. Understanding these subjects enhances analytical skills, fosters critical thinking, and aids in answering questions effectively in the exam.

Let us have a look at the Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC Mains Exam.

1. Political Science Books for UPSC Prelims Exam

The table below contains a list of Political Science Books for UPSC Prelims Exam:

Title Author
Political Theory Andrew Heywood
An Introduction to Political Theory O.P. Gauba
Indian Polity M. Laxmikanth
Introduction to the Constitution of India D.D. Basu
Political Science for Civil Services Mains P. Ramesh
Indian Government and Politics B.L. Fadia
Politics in India Rajni Kothari
Modern Political Theory S.P. Verma

2. International Relations Books for UPSC Mains Exam

The table below contains a list of International Relations Books for UPSC Mains Exam:

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Title Author
International Relations Joshua S. Goldstein and Jon C. Pevehouse
International Relations Paul R. Viotti and Mark V. Kauppi
Global Politics Andrew Heywood
World Politics: Interests, Interactions, Institutions Jeffry A. Frieden, David A. Lake, and Kenneth A. Schultz
International Relations since 1945 John W. Young
Contemporary World Politics Alan E. Wiseman
International Relations Vinay Kumar Malhotra

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Political Science and International Relations Books for UPSC FAQs

Yes, Political Science and International Relations can be beneficial for the UPSC exam, especially for the optional subject.

To study International Relations (IR) for UPSC, focus on key concepts, historical events, treaties, and the current affairs related to global politics. Utilise standard textbooks, newspapers, magazines, and online resources.

For UPSC IR, start with NCERT textbooks on political science and world history. Then delve into standard reference books like "World Politics" by Andrew Heywood and "International Relations" by Joshua Goldstein & Jon Pevehouse.

Whether Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) is easy for the UPSC exam depends on individual aptitude and preparation. However, it is a very popular choice among UPSC aspirants for Optional subject.
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AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD SOON
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
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Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
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Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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