The relations between independent states have been, during recent times, assuming such a character that our traditional ideas of international law are in need of revision; or it might be better to say that we are witnessing processes and developments in international life. which are adding new areas to the domain of international law. Such, for instance, is the rapid growth of international procedure in extradition, in the presentation of claims, and especially in arbitration. Another important new phase of the subject is the organization and administration of public unions in which certain economic, social, or scientific interests are dealt with on the basis of world-wide relations. The technical and industrial advance which characterizes our era has already brought about an internationalism, which is slowly and carefully being embodied in the forms of political organization. It is this latter subject to which the present volume is intended to afford an introduction. Within its space only summary treatment of the individual unions is possible; but the time will soon be ripe for a detailed study of this new international administrative law in all its manifold forms and applications.

The author desires to acknowledge the effective assistance in proof reading, revision, and verification received from Mr. S. Gale Lowrie, of the University of Wisconsin, and Mr. Benjamin B. Wallace, now of Princeton University. Parts of the chapters which make up this volume were published originally in the American Journal of International Law, the American Political Science Review, and the Forum. These portions, which are reprinted with the kind permission of the editors, have been revised, elaborated, and brought down to date.