6. Key Concepts in International Relations Flashcards
(147 cards)
1
Q
What is the definition of National Interest in international relations?
A
National Interest is an essentially contested concept that refers to the goals and objectives of a nation in the international arena, often encompassing security, economic prosperity, and cultural values.
2
Q
What are the instruments and methods for the promotion of national interest?
A
Instruments and methods for the promotion of national interest include diplomacy, economic aid, military alliances, and international treaties that aim to enhance a nation’s position and influence globally.
3
Q
What does it mean that national interests are dynamic?
A
The dynamic nature of national interests refers to the idea that a nation’s goals and priorities can change over time due to shifts in political, economic, and social contexts, as well as changes in leadership and global events.
4
Q
What is the concept of national security?
A
National security refers to the measures taken by a state to ensure its survival and safety against external threats, encompassing military, economic, and political strategies.
5
Q
What is the difference between a bipolar and multipolar world structure?
A
A bipolar world structure is characterized by two dominant powers, which can lead to stability through clear power dynamics, while a multipolar world involves multiple influential states, which can create complexity and potential instability in international relations.
6
Q
What is the balance of power in international relations?
A
The balance of power is a theory that suggests that national security is enhanced when military capabilities are distributed so that no one nation is strong enough to dominate all others, often maintained through alliances and counterbalancing strategies.
7
Q
What are the techniques for maintaining balance of power?
A
Techniques for maintaining balance of power include forming alliances, engaging in diplomacy, arms control agreements, and sometimes military interventions to counteract the rise of a potentially dominant state.
8
Q
What is Nuclear Deterrence?
A
Nuclear Deterrence is a military strategy that aims to prevent adversaries from attacking by the threat of retaliatory nuclear strike, thereby maintaining peace through the fear of mutual destruction.
9
Q
What role do multinational corporations (MNCs) play in economic growth?
A
Multinational corporations (MNCs) can drive economic growth by investing in local economies, creating jobs, and facilitating technology transfer, but they can also perpetuate underdevelopment by prioritizing profit over local welfare.
10
Q
What are transnational actors in international relations?
A
Transnational actors are entities that operate across national borders, including NGOs, multinational corporations, and international organizations, influencing global politics and policy beyond traditional state actors.
11
Q
What is collective security?
A
Collective security is a system in which states agree to take collective action to respond to threats against any member, aiming to maintain peace and security through mutual defense agreements.
12
Q
What are the challenges in the operation of collective security principles in the UN Charter?
A
Challenges in the operation of collective security principles in the UN Charter include issues of enforcement, differing national interests, the veto power of permanent members, and the need for consensus among diverse member states.
13
Q
What is the difference between collective security and collective defense?
A
Collective security refers to a broad agreement among states to respond to aggression against any member, while collective defense is a specific agreement among allies to defend each other against external attacks, often exemplified by NATO.
14
Q
How has global capitalism affected socialist economies?
A
The development of global capitalism has transformed socialist economies by introducing market mechanisms, encouraging privatization, and often leading to economic reforms that challenge traditional socialist principles.
15
Q
What are Core National Values?
A
Core National Values are elements such as national identity, cultural values, and political institutions that form the core of a nation’s identity and are considered vital interests for the continuity of the state.
16
Q
What is the difference between Primary Interests and Secondary Interests?
A
Primary Interests are core and vital concerns crucial to a nation’s security, sovereignty, and survival, while Secondary Interests are important considerations that may not be as critical and are subject to negotiation.
17
Q
What are Non-vital Interests?
A
Non-vital Interests include elements that are important but not essential for the immediate security or survival of the state, such as economic security and diplomatic relations.
18
Q
What is the role of Diplomacy in securing national interests?
A
Diplomacy involves managing international relations through negotiations, dialogue, and communication, serving as a primary tool for states to pursue their interests peacefully.
19
Q
What are Permanent Interests?
A
Permanent Interests are enduring and consistent concerns vital to a nation’s identity and security, stable over time and less influenced by short-term changes.
20
Q
What are Variable Interests?
A
Variable Interests are contingent on changing circumstances and the evolving international landscape, being flexible and subject to shifts in response to geopolitical developments.
21
Q
What are General Interests in the context of national interest?
A
General Interests are broad and overarching concerns that encompass various issues, reflecting a holistic view of a nation’s overall goals, such as economic well-being and global stability.
22
Q
What are Specific Interests?
A
Specific Interests are precise and narrowly defined objectives that a nation seeks to achieve, such as bilateral agreements and regional security initiatives.
23
Q
What is the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)?
A
The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is an agreement aimed at preventing nuclear proliferation.
24
Q
What is the role of military power in national interest?
A
Military power is used to deter threats, defend national sovereignty, and sometimes project power abroad.
25
How do economic policies and sanctions influence national interests?
Economic policies and sanctions are tools used by states to influence other countries' behaviors and secure economic interests.
26
What are strategic alliances and partnerships in the context of national interest?
Strategic alliances and partnerships enhance security, provide mutual defense, and strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between nations.
27
What is soft power and how does it relate to national interest?
Soft power is the ability to influence others through cultural appeal, values, and policies, which can enhance a country's global influence and relations.
28
How does international law and organizations contribute to national interest?
Engaging with international law and organizations helps states resolve disputes, build legitimacy, and cooperate on global issues.
29
What is the significance of intelligence and surveillance in national interest?
Intelligence and surveillance are crucial for understanding global developments and threats, aiding in national security.
30
Why are cyber capabilities important for national interest?
Cyber capabilities are essential for both offensive and defensive operations in the digital age, impacting national security.
31
How does economic development and innovation relate to national interest?
Investing in economic development and technological innovation enhances a state's competitiveness and economic security.
32
What justification was given for the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003?
The U.S. invasion of Iraq was justified as essential for American security and global stability, aiming to eliminate alleged weapons of mass destruction.
33
How were economic sanctions against Russia framed in terms of national interest?
Western sanctions against Russia post-Crimea annexation were framed as upholding international law and protecting European security.
34
What was the rationale behind the U.S.-China trade war under President Trump?
The U.S.-China trade war was justified as protecting American economic security by addressing unfair competition and trade imbalances.
35
What are Climate Change Policies in relation to national interest?
Climate Change Policies refer to the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement under President Trump, which was claimed to protect national interests by arguing that the agreement was economically burdensome and hindered domestic industry.
36
How does China justify its Territorial Claims in the South China Sea?
China justifies its actions in the South China Sea, such as building artificial islands, as protecting its sovereign rights and territorial integrity, considering it a core national interest.
37
What was the justification for NATO's Humanitarian Interventions in Kosovo?
NATO's intervention in Kosovo in 1999 was justified by member states as a moral duty to prevent human rights abuses, serving the national interest of promoting human rights and European stability.
38
What is the significance of Non-Proliferation Efforts like the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA)?
The Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) is often justified in terms of national interest, with involved countries viewing it as essential for global security and stability.
39
How is the concept of national interest defined in international relations?
In international relations, the concept of national interest is primarily defined by a state's pursuit of power, security, and prosperity, with traditional views linked to power and contemporary views considering ethical values and global cooperation.
40
What is the Realist perspective on Security?
Realism views security primarily in military terms, emphasizing the anarchic nature of the international system where states exist in a constant struggle for power and security, focusing on protecting national sovereignty and survival through military strength.
41
How do Liberals broaden the concept of Security?
Liberals broaden the concept of security to include not only military threats but also economic stability, human rights, and international cooperation, seeing economic interdependence and institutions as key factors in maintaining peace and security.
42
What do Constructivists argue about Security?
Constructivists argue that security is socially constructed, shaped by ideas, norms, and identities, emphasizing that threats depend on how actors perceive them and the role of non-state actors and transnational issues.
43
What do Critical Security Studies highlight about traditional notions of Security?
Critical security studies challenge traditional notions of security by highlighting the impact of power structures, inequality, and discourses on security issues, and analyzing how certain security practices can marginalize specific groups.
44
What issues do Feminist Security Studies address?
Feminist Security Studies critique traditional security studies for their gender-blind approach, arguing that security must include issues such as gender-based violence, reproductive rights, and the experiences of women.
45
What is the concept of Human Security as defined by Mahbub ul Haq and Amartya Sen?
Human security broadens the concept beyond the state-centric focus, emphasizing the protection of individuals from a wide range of threats, including poverty, disease, and environmental degradation, and involves international efforts to address issues like hunger, disease, and displacement that directly impact individuals.
46
What is the Security Dilemma in international relations?
The security dilemma describes a situation where one state's efforts to increase its own security are perceived as threatening by other states, leading to a cycle of competitive and potentially destabilizing actions due to uncertainty in assessing the intentions of other states.
47
How do defensive measures contribute to the Security Dilemma?
Defensive measures, such as building up military capabilities or fortifying borders, may be perceived by other states as offensive preparations, heightening tensions and leading to a cycle of suspicion and competition.
48
What role does lack of trust play in the Security Dilemma?
A lack of trust and difficulty in accurately gauging the intentions of other states fuels the security dilemma, leading to misperceptions that can spiral into suspicion and competition.
49
What is the Offence-Defence theory by Robert Jervis?
The Offence-Defence theory distinguishes between the relative advantages of offense and defense in military capabilities, suggesting that if offense has the advantage, states may adopt aggressive postures for security, contributing to the security dilemma.
50
How has the traditional view of national security evolved?
The traditional view focused on military and territorial security, but has evolved to include economic security, cyber security, environmental security, and human security, reflecting a broader understanding of threats to national security.
51
What is the significance of economic security in national security?
Economic security, highlighted by experts like Joseph Nye, emphasizes the importance of economic strength and stability as crucial for national security, as demonstrated by events like the 2008 global financial crisis.
52
What are the implications of cyber security for national security?
Cyber security emphasizes the protection of information systems against cyber threats, with incidents like the 2010 Stuxnet attack illustrating the potential for cyber operations to target critical infrastructure, impacting national security.
53
How do environmental issues relate to national security?
Environmental security, identified by figures like Norman Myers, considers issues like climate change as security concerns, with examples such as the Syrian Civil War's links to drought and agricultural collapse demonstrating environmental impacts on security.
54
What are Transnational Threats?
Non-state threats like terrorism and organized crime that reshape security strategies, exemplified by the 9/11 attacks.
55
How does Joseph Nye define Power?
Power is the ability to influence others to achieve desired outcomes, involving coercion, persuasion, and attraction.
56
What are the characteristics of Power?
Power is dynamic, relative, contextual, multifaceted, and non-zero-sum, meaning it evolves and is assessed in relation to other actors.
57
What is Military Power?
The ability to use force and exert influence through military strength, including the size and capability of armed forces and technological advancements.
58
What is Economic Power?
The control over resources, trade, and economic policies that enables states to shape global economic dynamics and influence markets.
59
What is Soft Power?
The capacity to influence others through attraction, culture, and ideology rather than coercion, shaping perceptions and garnering support non-coercively.
60
What is Informational Power?
The control over the flow and dissemination of information, including managing narratives and shaping public opinion.
61
What is Technological Power?
The ability to innovate and control advanced technologies, leveraging technological advancements for strategic advantage.
62
What is Psychological Power?
The ability to shape perceptions, beliefs, and attitudes, influencing the psychological aspects of individuals and societies.
63
What defines a Superpower?
A state with unparalleled strength and influence on a global scale, often across multiple dimensions of power.
64
What are Great Powers?
States possessing substantial military, economic, and geopolitical influence, though not to the extent of superpowers.
65
What characterizes a Middle Power?
States with moderate influence, often excelling in specific areas or playing crucial roles in regional stability.
66
What defines Small Powers?
States with limited military and economic capabilities, often relying on diplomatic strategies.
67
What is Hard Power?
Power exercised through coercion, force, or economic pressure to achieve specific goals.
68
What is Smart Power?
The concept of combining hard power with soft power to achieve foreign policy objectives effectively, emphasizing a balanced approach in diplomacy.
69
What is Sharp Power?
The use of manipulative techniques by authoritarian regimes to influence and interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, focusing on manipulation rather than attraction.
70
What are covert tactics in the context of sharp power?
Covert tactics refer to the use of methods like disinformation campaigns, cyber interference, and proxy use to advance state agendas under the radar.
71
What is the significance of fast power in international relations?
Fast power emphasizes rapid adaptation, agility, and technological prowess, recognizing the need for swift responses to emerging global challenges.
72
What is internal balancing in the context of the balance of power?
Internal balancing involves a state independently strengthening its military, economic, and other resources to enhance its relative power without forming alliances.
73
What is external balancing and how does it function?
External balancing involves forming alliances or partnerships with other states to counterbalance a perceived threat or power, enhancing collective security through collaboration.
74
How does the U.S.-China rivalry exemplify the balance of power?
The U.S.-China rivalry illustrates the balance of power as the U.S. and its allies seek to counterbalance China's rising influence in the Asia-Pacific and globally.
75
What role does media manipulation play in sharp power strategies?
Media manipulation, through narrative control and propaganda, is a prevalent aspect of sharp power strategies that aims to influence public perception and political outcomes.
76
What role does the European Union play in balancing against large economies?
The European Union utilizes its collective bargaining power in international trade and negotiations to balance against other large economies and entities.
77
How did the U.S. emerge as a dominant power post-Cold War?
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the U.S. emerged as a unipolar power, demonstrating its dominance through actions like the Iraq invasion in 2003, despite opposition from other major powers.
78
What is the significance of deterrence in international politics?
Deterrence in international politics aims to dissuade adversaries from taking certain actions by instilling fear of unfavorable consequences, influencing their decision-making.
79
How does the European Union utilize its power in international trade?
The European Union utilizes its collective bargaining power in international trade and negotiations to balance against other large economies and entities.
80
What is the significance of deterrence in international politics?
Deterrence in international politics aims to dissuade adversaries from taking certain actions by instilling fear of unfavorable consequences, influencing their decision-making to prevent undesirable actions.
81
What are the key components of effective deterrence?
Effective deterrence requires credible threats of retaliation, the capability to carry out those threats, clear communication of red lines, and the assumption of rational decision-making by states or actors.
82
What is nuclear deterrence?
Nuclear deterrence involves the threat of devastating nuclear retaliation to dissuade potential adversaries from initiating a nuclear conflict.
83
What is conventional deterrence?
Conventional deterrence relies on the threat of conventional military force to discourage aggression from adversaries.
84
What is Economic Deterrence?
Economic Deterrence involves using economic tools, such as sanctions or trade restrictions, to deter certain actions by leveraging the economic impact as a deterrent force.
85
What are the challenges of maintaining a credible deterrent threat?
Credibility Challenges refer to the difficulties in maintaining a credible deterrent threat, especially if the deterring state's capabilities are in doubt or if there is uncertainty about its willingness to follow through.
86
What is the principle of Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD)?
Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) is a strategic doctrine where major powers avoid direct conflict, particularly nuclear war, due to the certainty of mutual destruction.
87
How does Nuclear Deterrence function as a military doctrine?
Nuclear Deterrence posits that the possession of nuclear weapons deters aggression by adversaries, with the threat of devastating nuclear retaliation believed to prevent direct conflicts between nuclear-armed states.
88
What are the advantages of Nuclear Deterrence?
Advantages of Nuclear Deterrence include preventing major conflicts due to the fear of mutual destruction, enhancing bargaining power in international negotiations, and promoting regional stability.
89
What are the disadvantages of Nuclear Deterrence?
Disadvantages of Nuclear Deterrence include its limited effectiveness against non-state actors like terrorist groups, making it less applicable in scenarios involving such entities.
90
What is the concept of unipolarity in international relations?
Unipolarity refers to a global power structure characterized by a single dominant state, exemplified by the post-Cold War era with the United States as the sole superpower.
91
How does bipolarity influence global stability according to Kenneth Waltz?
Kenneth Waltz argues that a bipolar system is more stable due to its simplicity and predictability, reducing the chances of miscalculations that could lead to war.
92
What are the characteristics of multipolarity in the context of international relations?
Multipolarity involves several major powers, each with significant influence, creating a more complex power structure.
93
What is the significance of nuclear deterrence in the context of conflict prevention?
Nuclear deterrence does not necessarily prevent smaller, conventional conflicts and does not guarantee peace.
94
What challenges does deterrence face against non-nuclear states?
Deterrence is complex when facing adversaries without nuclear capabilities or those with different strategic cultures.
95
What are the benefits of a multipolar world order?
A multipolar world order has several benefits including more evenly distributed power, increased diplomatic engagement, and fostering cooperation on global challenges.
96
What is Hegemonic Stability Theory (HST)?
Hegemonic Stability Theory (HST) proposes that the international system is more likely to remain stable when a single nation-state dominates and leads the global order.
97
Who is considered a hegemon in international relations?
A hegemon is a state that possesses preponderant power in the international system, characterized by unparalleled military strength and economic size.
98
What conditions must be met for a state to be considered a hegemon?
The conditions to be a hegemon include military dominance, economic size and stability, and significant diplomatic and cultural influence.
99
What is the importance of hegemons in the international system?
Hegemons provide order and predictability, establish rules for peaceful coexistence, and promote global norms and values.
100
What are the problems associated with Hegemonic Stability Theory?
Problems include imperial overstretch, resistance from emerging powers, and dependency among smaller states.
101
What are transnational actors?
Transnational actors are entities that operate across national borders, influencing global politics, economics, and society.
102
What roles do transnational organizations play in the international system?
Transnational organizations engage in advocacy, influence policies, and promote cultural exchange and education.
103
How do realists view transnational actors in international relations?
Realists focus on state actors and their interests, viewing transnational actors as having limited influence.
104
What is the liberal perspective on transnational actors?
Liberals emphasize the importance of transnational actors in global governance, recognizing their significant role.
105
What is Constructivism in the context of transnational actors?
Constructivism focuses on how transnational actors shape norms and ideas in international relations.
106
How do transnational actors contribute to the erosion of state sovereignty?
Transnational actors operate beyond national borders, challenging traditional notions of state sovereignty.
107
What role do transnational corporations play in globalization and economic interdependence?
Transnational corporations drive trade and investment, holding significant sway over global supply chains.
108
How do transnational NGOs and political movements influence state policies?
Transnational NGOs and political movements mobilize public opinion and pressure governments to adopt certain policies.
109
What security challenges do transnational criminal organizations present?
Transnational criminal organizations exploit globalization and technological advancements, creating security challenges.
110
How has the digital age affected the flow of information and state governance?
The digital age has facilitated rapid information flow across borders, challenging states' ability to govern effectively.
111
What is the significance of MNCs in international economic relations?
MNCs are major transnational actors that contribute to global trade, investment, and economic development.
112
What is the political influence of MNCs?
MNCs can wield substantial political influence through lobbying and shaping policy debates.
113
What are transgovernmental relations according to Keohane and Nye?
Transgovernmental relations underscore the political impact of non-state actors in shaping global governance.
114
How do MNCs impact social and cultural norms?
MNCs can impact social and cultural norms and practices in the countries where they operate.
115
What criticisms do MNCs face regarding economic inequalities?
MNCs face criticisms for their role in perpetuating economic inequalities and environmental degradation.
116
What is the nature of terrorist organizations as transnational actors?
Terrorist organizations operate beyond national boundaries, using violence to achieve political objectives.
117
How do terrorist organizations impact international politics?
Terrorist organizations challenge state sovereignty and global security, leading to international military interventions.
118
What role do NGOs play in international politics?
NGOs influence international politics through advocacy and implementation of development and relief programs.
119
How do NGOs contribute to development projects?
NGOs play a crucial role in implementing development projects in areas with limited government presence.
120
What is the grassroots impact of NGOs?
NGOs often work at the grassroots level, effectively addressing local needs and empowering communities.
121
How do NGOs advocate for policy changes?
NGOs advocate for policy changes at national and international levels to address development challenges.
122
What is collective security?
Collective security is a system in which states come together to ensure the security of all by making a collective commitment against aggression.
123
What are the ideal conditions for the success of collective security?
The ideal conditions for the success of collective security include universal membership and effective decision-making mechanisms.
124
How does collective security differ from collective defence?
Collective security aims at maintaining international peace among a wide group of states, while collective defence involves specific states agreeing to defend each other.
125
What is the principle of Collective Security?
Based on the idea that peace and security are the collective responsibility of all nations.
126
What is the mechanism of Balance of Power?
States balance against a potentially hegemonic power through alliances or military buildups.
127
What is the goal of Collective Security?
To deter potential aggressors by the overwhelming collective response that aggression would provoke.
128
What is the shared objective of both Collective Security and Balance of Power?
Maintain international peace and stability; prevent dominance of any single state.
129
How does Collective Security react to aggression?
Treats all aggression as a threat to the international community.
130
What is the nature of alliances in Balance of Power?
Flexible, often temporary, changing with power shifts.
131
What approach does Collective Security take towards peace?
Moral approach based on legal and ethical commitments to peace.
132
What was a key failure of the League of Nations in terms of Collective Security?
Lack of participation from major powers and weak enforcement mechanisms.
133
What is the Rise of the United Nations?
The establishment of the UN post World War II to address the shortcomings of the League of Nations.
134
What are the criticisms against Collective Security?
Criticisms include ineffectiveness in preventing conflicts and biased enforcement by powerful states.
135
What is the world capitalist economy?
A global economic system characterized by private ownership of production means and market-based allocation of resources.
136
How does the world capitalist economy influence global governance?
The capitalist economic power translates into political clout, allowing wealthier nations to wield more influence.
137
What is the impact of the world capitalist economy on development and inequality?
The world capitalist economy drives economic growth but also contributes to global inequalities.
138
What is the influence of economic interests rooted in capitalism on conflicts and cooperation?
Economic interests drive competition for resources and collaborative efforts in areas like climate change.
139
What are the merits of capitalism in terms of economic growth?
Capitalism has been a driver of economic growth and development, with significant growth in market-oriented countries.
140
How does capitalism promote innovation and efficiency?
The profit motive under capitalism encourages innovation and efficiency.
141
What is a major demerit of capitalism related to wealth distribution?
Capitalism often leads to unequal wealth distribution, highlighted by the growing wealth gap.
142
What does Thomas Piketty argue about wealth and income inequality in capitalist societies?
Piketty argues that the rate of capital return is often higher than the rate of economic growth, leading to increasing inequality.
143
What is Milton Friedman's view on free markets and economic freedom?
Friedman advocated for free markets, believing that economic freedom is a prerequisite for political freedom.
144
How has capitalist expansion influenced globalization and market integration?
Capitalist expansion has driven globalization, pushing socialist economies towards market-oriented reforms.
145
What social challenges arise from capitalism's wealth generation?
Capitalism's wealth generation is tempered by rising income inequality, posing concerns for socialist and developing nations.
146
How has global capitalism influenced political ideologies in developing countries?
Global capitalism has influenced a shift towards mixed economies in socialist and developing countries.
147
What role do global capital markets play in developing economies?
The importance of global capital markets has led developing economies to adjust policies to attract investment.
