Learning package 1, the first in a series of four, incorporates a simulation exercise designed to help students in higher education understand factors that affect the stability of the international relations system. Focus is on a "system" perspective in order to show the historical development and to point up the operation of various balance of power patterns. Students are introduced to concepts used by statesmen pertaining to the international political system. The manual is divided into two parts: 1) briefly discusses ten basic theories expressing the nature of stability in the international political system along with analysis activities; 2) consists of the participants manual containing simulation exercises requiring three class periods and "post simulation" analytical activities. Three cycles of the exercise, each representing a historical stage in the state system, are: the classical state system of the 18th century, the modern state system of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the contemporary system. A short bibliography of relevant readings is provided. An instructors manual accompanies the package. Related documents are: SO 003 113 through SO 003 115. (Author/SJM)