Fifty years after the creation of the UN, vigorous debate continues as to its limitations and possibilities. David J. Whittaker offers a concise critical analysis of the UN as a world organization and considers how it works and what reforms are desirable and feasible. Exploring the nature of the UN as a regime in contemporary international relations, Whittaker considers its changing terms of reference and includes a series of case studies to illustrate its multifaceted activities--peacekeeping, arms control, aid for refugees--and the complex issues associated with developing nations and global urbanization.