Constructivism Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is the concept of identity in international relations according to Wendt?
Identity is intersubjective and not naturally given. It emerges from state goals and influences state behavior.
Wendt argues that identity exists between states and is constructed through social interactions.
According to Wendt, how can states overcome anarchy?
States can change their responses and construct new norms and rules.
Wendt emphasizes that anarchy is not inherent and can be shaped by state interactions.
What are the roles of rules and norms in state behavior?
Rules and norms are both regulative and constitutive of state behavior.
They help shape identities and influence how states act in the international system.
How does Finnemore describe the role of international organizations (IOs)?
IOs teach states what their interests are.
This perspective suggests that states learn and adapt their identities through interaction with IOs.
What is the ‘norm life cycle’ according to Finnemore and Sikkink?
Norms are standards of appropriate behavior for actors with a given identity.
This cycle describes how norms emerge, evolve, and become established within international relations.
What does the term ‘security communities’ refer to?
Groups of states sharing deeply held values, making war impossible and favoring peaceful resolutions.
An example is ASEAN, where member states prevent the use of force in disputes.
What is the significance of language in identity construction?
Language is significant in how actors believe in their identities and can influence their actions.
This suggests that discourse plays a critical role in shaping perceptions and identities.
What is the security-development nexus?
It reflects shared global norms linking peace and prosperity.
National identities and normative power shape policies related to security and development.
Fill in the blank: According to Wendt, ‘500 British nuclear weapons are ______ than 500 NK weapons.’
less threatening
This highlights how perceptions of threat are influenced by identity and context.
True or False: According to the text, war is considered a social institution.
True
War is shaped by dominant normative beliefs, including concepts like R2P and IHL.
What are some strengths of ideational factors in international relations?
They address overlooked aspects by rationalist theories and apply to state behavior.
Ideational factors emphasize the importance of cultural and social influences in international relations.
What are some weaknesses of focusing on ideational factors?
They may ignore the impact of bad ideas and the extent to which ideas influence state behavior compared to material factors.
This raises questions about the balance between ideational and material influences.
What is the significance of climate change in the context of state behavior?
It is a discursive construct that influences state behavior through shared norms and values.
Understanding climate change involves both physical dimensions and the social interpretations that shape international responses.
