ABSTRACT
Like any other field operating within the greater framework of international relations, the field o f studying international river systems reflects the wide diversity of theoretical thought in the parent field. The vast majority o f the field is either Realist or post-Realist. With the exception of a small school o f alternative literature, the field holds that water disputes are a cause of serious conflict. Regarding theory, the book’s conclusion is dedicated to applying the lessons learned from the rivers to international relations theory through commentary on the major schools. Since this is not a book aiming to construct a theory, the commentary will be o f a general nature. The commentary will not delve into the nuances o f theory. It is more important to learn what the rivers say about the theories and not vice versa.
