Theoretical approaches in international relations Flashcards
How did international relations as a discipline start?
after WW2 political theorists wondered what caused the war and how it could be avoided
looking for peace between nations and states
Define inernational relations
relations between nations and states
Define the state in IR
sovereign states that practice their own political duties
it is the most important topic discusses in IR
define transnational
political events of a nation are not confined to the state’s borders, they affect many other nations
Define international
idea that states are compartmentalised and independent from one another
Why does globalisation have an impact on IR?
Because it has made state borders semi-permeable
eg. economic relations, exchange of ideas, norms and values
What are the 3 main traits of states in IR?
- permanent population
- borders that are recognised internationally
- a government that has defacto sovereignty/ practices diplomacy with other state
why do states form organisations?
To imptove their respective wellbeing and interests (eg. Intergovernmental org.(UN), social movements, terrorist groups
encourage states to follow international laws and guidelines but cannot force them- nothing is above state sovereignty
What historical event started the concept of “political interdependence”?
European imperialism
imposition of technology and culture furthered the concept of shared relations between states
interdependence is essential for human survival
Define theory in IR
Theory is the methodology used by political theorists (scholars) to make sense of the world- it involves debate
Define theoretical frameworks in IR
Ways of categorising theory so that it can be better analysed
What is anarchy thesis?
In the absence of a global governing body, international laws and state relations there would be nothing to make states follow international law.
Liberal perspective on anarchy thesis
Anarchy can be mitigated by implementing international law and promoting global peace
Realist perspective
Anarchy is inevitable and international organisations can’t do anything to prevent it.
What is liberalism’s view on human nature and anarchy?
- human can evolve and progress
- humans don’t like conflict and naturally want peace
- international orgs and NGOs are needed to keep the peace
- resources: free market economy, individual liberties, democracy
