Kenneth Waltz was an influential American political scientist, best known for his work in the field of international relations. He is often associated with the development of the theory of neorealism, which emphasizes the role of the international system's structure in shaping state behavior. His seminal book, Theory of International Politics, published in 1979, laid the groundwork for modern realist thought. Waltz's ideas challenged traditional views by arguing that the anarchic nature of the international system compels states to prioritize their security. He believed that the distribution of power among states is a key factor in understanding global politics, influencing both scholars and policymakers in the field.