Dr. Blanton’s research interests are in the areas of international relations, comparative politics, and U.S. foreign policy – with an emphasis on human rights and democracy.  She has published articles on the determinants of U.S. arms transfers, the impact of arms imports on human security (human rights, democracy, and human development) in developing countries, human rights as a determinant of U.S. foreign aid, and the role of images in U.S. foreign policy decision-making. 

Her current research examines the role that human rights concerns play in shaping foreign direct investment and trade in the global community.  This work investigates whether there is a “business case” for human rights concerns in global economic interactions and has implications for the growing debate about corporate social responsibility.Dr. Blanton has won several research awards as a faculty member at The University of Memphis, and has published numerous articles that have appeared in leading academic journals within her discipline.

Her published work has appeared in journals such as the American Journal of Political Science, Journal of Politics, International Studies Quarterly, Journal of Peace Research, International Interactions, and elsewhere.  Dr. Blanton assumed the responsibilities of department chair in 2003, and is an active participant in the larger University community and within her professional discipline.  She is also affiliated with The Chair Academy, where she serves as a facilitator for leadership development in higher education.

Dr. Blanton teaches courses on foreign policy, international conflict, international relations theory and statistics.  She joined the faculty at The University of Memphis in the summer of 1999.