Professor Blanton’s research focuses on the nexus between the global economy and political phenomena, particularly conflict, cooperation and respect for human rights. In particular, he has published articles dealing with the significance of human rights as a locational concern for foreign investors. Related studies have dealt with the relationship between human rights and global trade. A related line of research deals with the implications of economic integration for conflict and cooperation, both between and within states. His future research will begin to examine some of the mechanisms through which respect for human rights influences economic decisions. Other projects will further probe the nuances in the integration/conflict nexus, in particular how different types of integration into the global economy -- including trade, investment, and foreign assistance – influence civil and interstate conflict. He has authored one book (Defining the ‘New World Order:’ Economic Regions and Patterns of Global Conflict and Cooperation) and numerous articles in scholarly journals, including Journal of Politics, Journal of Peace Research, International Interactions, Political Research Quarterly, and Sociological Inquiry.

Professor Blanton teaches classes on international relations and international political economy. He directs the International Studies Major as well as the Governor’s School for International Studies. He joined the faculty at Memphis in the fall of 1997.