The book tests three major International Relations (IR) theories—Realism, Domestic Factors, and Social Constructivism—across several 20th-century case studies.

Small states compensate for their lack of military and economic might by using specialized "tools of the trade" to gain relevance:

Many small states become recognized experts in specific areas—such as climate change or digital innovation—to gain leverage in global negotiations.

Small diplomatic systems are often non-specialized and struggle to keep up with the massive volume of information in modern international relations.