Learning Unit 1: Defining Epochs

Question 1

What does the term ‘epochs’ refer to?

Answer 1

A particular point/period in history

Question 2

What is international law?

Answer 2

The law between states (countries). It regulates the external relations between states.

SG page 2

Question 3

Who are the subjects of international law?

Answer 3

States

Question 4

What type of relations can states have with each other?

Answer 4

Bilateral or multilateral

Question 5

Define bilateral relations in the context of international law.

Answer 5

Relations between one state and another

Question 6

Define multilateral relations in the context of international law.

Answer 6

Relations involving several states cooperating with one another or as members of an international organization

Question 7

Are private individuals subjects of international law?

Answer 7

No

Question 8

Who invented the term ‘international law’?

Answer 8

Jeremy Bentham

Bentham introduced the term in his book ‘An Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation’ in 1789.

Question 9

What did Bentham believe international law applied to?

Answer 9

Relations between states

This view established the concept of international law in the nineteenth century.

Question 10

What is the primary focus of international law?

Answer 10

Regulating external relations between states

This includes both bilateral and multilateral relations.

Question 11

What are the two types of relations states can have under international law?

Answer 11

• Bilateral (one state to another)
• Multilateral (several states cooperating)

Multilateral relations can occur under treaties or within international organizations.

Question 12

What development after World War II influenced the view of subjects in international law?

Answer 12

Development of international human rights law

This led to arguments that individuals have become subjects of international law.

Question 13

What caution should be taken regarding individuals as subjects of international law?

Answer 13

The relationship between the state and the individual remains a public law matter

Human rights protection does not change the nature of this legal relationship.

Question 14

What distinguishes ‘public international law’ from ‘private international law’?

Answer 14

‘Public international law’ regulates state relations, while ‘private international law’ resolves conflicts in private law between individuals

Private international law is also known as ‘conflict of laws’.

Question 15

What is the primary purpose of the international legal order?

Answer 15

To define and delimit the spheres of authority for sovereign states

This helps states defend their interests.

Question 16

What historical event is referred to by ‘Westphalian institutions’?

Answer 16

The Peace of Westphalia in 1648

This event marked the establishment of the modern state system.

Question 17

What are the three core principles accepted by the Peace of Westphalia?

Answer 17

• Principle of state sovereignty
• Principle of legal equality of states
• Principle of non-intervention

These principles govern interstate relations and remain valid today.

Question 18

True or False: International law only applies to countries.

Answer 18

False

Question 19

What are the two main types of international law?

Answer 19

Public international law and private international law.

Question 20

Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a source of international law? A) Treaties B) Custom C) Domestic law D) Judicial decisions

Answer 20

C) Domestic law

Question 21

Fill in the blank: The __________ Court is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations.

Answer 21

International Court of Justice

Question 22

Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of a jus cogens norm? A) Right to self-determination B) Right to contract C) Right to property D) Right to privacy

Answer 22

A) Right to self-determination

Question 23

True or False: Customary international law arises from the consistent practice of states.

Answer 23

True

Question 24

Fill in the blank: __________ is the ability of states to govern themselves without external interference.

Answer 24

Sovereignty

Question 25

Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a function of international law? A) Regulating trade B) Establishing peace C) Creating domestic laws D) Protecting human rights

Answer 25

C) Creating domestic laws

Question 26

True or False: International law can be enforced by national courts.

Answer 26

True

Question 27

What is 'soft law' in the context of international law?

Answer 27

Non-binding agreements or declarations that influence state behavior.

Question 28

Multiple Choice: Which body is primarily responsible for enforcing international law? A) World Trade Organization B) International Criminal Court C) United Nations Security Council D) International Monetary Fund

Answer 28

C) United Nations Security Council

Question 29

How old is international law as we know it today?

Answer 29

International law is relatively new, only some 400 to 500 years old. ## Footnote This contrasts with the historical aspects of international law, which date back much further.

Question 30

What role did colonialism play in the development of international law?

Answer 30

Colonialism played an important role in eliminating contributions of pre-colonial African kingdoms to the practice of international law. ## Footnote This highlights the often overlooked impact of African customary law on international relations.

Question 31

What are the roots of modern-day international law?

Answer 31

Modern day international law has its roots in European common law. ## Footnote This development often ignored the contributions of African customary law.