Unit 1: Introduction to geopolitics Flashcards
What are the main fields of study within international relations?
History, Political theory, Philosophy, and International Law
When and where did IR become a independent field of study?
In 1919 at the University of Aberystwyth in Wales,
Started as research of the causes of conflicts in the international arena
What does IR studies include today?
Foreign policy analysis
International security issues
Global political economy
International relations are constantly changing. The world is now highly interconnected and “globalized”. New actors play an important role, apart from states.
What is Area Studies?
A discipline related to IR: the multidisciplinary study of a geographical region (politics, society, culture, culture, history, language etc..)
Such as..
- European Studies
- Russian and Eurasian Studies
- Middle east and North African (MENA)
What are non-state actors?
MNCs/MNEs
IGOs
NGOs
Individuals
Organized crime groups
Terrorist groups
Social movements
Religious movements
What defines an international actor?
A unity, group or individual in the international arena that has the ability to:
- continued existence
- ability to influence other actors
- Certain degree of autonomy to pursue its own interest
Explain the origin of states
Our modern perception of state is derived from the Westphalian system of 1648.
It originated after the settlement of the 30 year war in Europe, and the concept of sovereignty and respect for borders and statehood flourished
Explain the difference between the “state” before and after the Peace of Westphalia:
Before, the concept of state was not truly identified, but loyalty of the people was with a specific person, not an institution. Within a territory there were several competing authorities and loyalties - such as to a King, Emperor or a Pope
A modern state, on the contrary, is an institution with monopoly over political authority and the use of force within the borders of a certain territory. Loyalty is towards the institution, and with respectable boundaries
What are the key aspects of Realism in regards to IR theory
The state is the most important actors in the international community
The state acts in its own interest to survive
There is no “world order”, the IC is a anarchic system where all states are fighting for their own survival.
To only way to prevent war is the balance of power - leading a continuous competition for power
What are the key aspects of Liberalism in regards to IR theory
States are important actors, but non-state actors and intergovernmental organizations are also key actors in the IC.
States follow rules and norms - there is a world order which maintains a peaceful system
Humanitarian intervention is justified
What are the key aspects of Marxism in regards to IR theory
Capitalism is based on the exploitation of a majority of the world population so a minority can enjoy a privileged life
Great powers are imperialists: colonization and dominance over weaker countries. Imperialism is the last stage of capitalism.
The working class of all countries should change this unfair system, either by revolution (classical Marxism) or through democratic elections (European socialism/social democracy)
What is geopolitics?
A group of political geography theories about the influence of geographical factors on relations between states. The main theories were developed in the 19th and 20th century)
Relationship between IR and Geopolitics
Geopolitics is synonymous with international politics, which is studied within the discipline of IR.
Usually found under the realist approach it IR, as it is often linked to the territorial competition and conflict competition between states
Which of the theories of IR does classical geopolitics fall underneath?
Historically under the realist theory, but it is also integrated into the broader spectrum between IR theories
Which of the theories of IR does critical geopolitics fall underneath?
Critical geopolitics incorporates views from Marxism, constructivism, postcolonialism and the feminist theory
