Topic 4 Flashcards
(47 cards)
Why is knowing about political geography important?
is an essential component in understanding the complexities of International Relations. Its importance lies in how the physical and human geography of countries directly affects global political, economic and strategic dynamics
How does political geography affects international relations
1) Influences on political decisions
- a country’s geographic location can determine its access to resources, its security, and its ability to influence specific regions.
2) Distribution of Natural resources
Oil, gas, minerals.
3) Borders and territorial conflicts
4) Economic development and regional inequalities
5) Strategic location and security
6) Environmental impact and climate change
7) Infrastructure and connectivity
Definition of politics
Art, doctrine or opinion concerning political government
Which branch of geography studies the spatial consequences of political processes?
Political geography
According to Ratzel, how is the state conceptualized in the organicist theory?
As an organism seeking expansion to secure its “living space”
What is the primary goal of geostrategy?
Analyze the spatial organization of military and political forces in a conflict
German school
By Friedrick Ratzel and Rudolf Kjellen
Which scholar introduced the “Heartland” theory?
Halford Mackinder
Geopolitik
intended to guide the actions and to serve as a
practical manual for warfare (geography as a “weapon for war”)
To a certain extent, Geopolitik was linked to
Nazi politics, since it provided the latter with practical
instruments: statistical information on countries, territorial,
economic and military situation of potential enemies, strategic
approaches, etc.
What is the primary goal of geostrategy?
Analyze the spatial organization of military and political forces in a conflict
When was the concept of state born
In europe after the peace of westphalia
Which of the following examples illustrates a “unitary state”?
France
Which event established 27 new states based on nationalist principles?
The Paris Peace Conference of 1919
What is a fundamental characteristic of “natural boundaries”?
They are defined by geographical features like rivers or mountains
Which discipline considers geography as a “weapon of war”?
Geopolitics
Which of the following is not a basic element of the state?
A defined territory
Which theory emphasized the importance of Eurasia’s central location in controlling the world?
The Heartland theory
Which scholar influenced the idea of “sovereignty” as supreme authority?
Jean Bodin
Which school placed a strong emphasis on the relationship between state and geographic space ?
German school
According to political geography, how do borders influence economic flows?
They delimit state control over such flows
Which school popularized the concept of “living space” (Lebensraum)?
The German school
What is living space or lebensraum
Each state requires a vital territory and achieves it at the expense of its neighbors.
Which region is considered a “shatterbelt” according to Saul Cohen?
Southeast Asia
Geography of international relations
- Traditional geostrategic models
- study of the current influence of international organizations.
- Resurgence of nationalism and conflict in various regions of the planet.
- Geopolitical concern for maritime spaces.
