Basic Concepts in International Relations

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Questions and Answers

What was the main focus of the Third Great Debate in international relations?

Globalization versus Nationalism

Constructivism versus Positivism

Realist ideas about power versus Liberalist theories of democracy

Institutional Neoliberalism versus Structural Neorealism (correct)

Which of the following best describes the viewpoint of Institutional Neoliberalism?

States can benefit from cooperation through international institutions. (correct)

Power politics is the only path to survival.

Human nature drives states to constant conflict.

Cooperation is impossible in an anarchic system.

What key principle is emphasized by Structural Neorealism?

States prioritize economic interdependence.

Knowledge is socially constructed.

Anarchy forces states to focus on power and survival. (correct)

Moral norms guide state behavior.

Which statement accurately reflects the concept of Positivism?

It advocates for scientific methods and objective truths. Signup and view all the answers

Who is a prominent figure associated with Classic Realism?

Hans Morgenthau Signup and view all the answers

What does Classic Realism assume about the international system?

It lacks a central authority and is anarchic. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key criticism of Classic Realism according to its proponents?

It fails to consider the impact of international institutions. Signup and view all the answers

What does Post-positivism emphasize in contrast to Positivism?

The role of ideas, norms, and identities in shaping behavior. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actors are considered foundational to international relations?

States Signup and view all the answers

What are the four key characteristics of an ideal state?

Sovereignty, Territory, Population, Government Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes globalization?

The process of increasing interconnectedness and interdependence among countries Signup and view all the answers

In international relations, the role of NGOs is primarily focused on which of the following?

Representing civil society and addressing human rights issues Signup and view all the answers

How have states’ roles in international relations evolved over time?

Their sovereignty is increasingly influenced by global institutions and networks. Signup and view all the answers

Which landmark event is considered pivotal in the evolution of the modern state?

The Treaty of Westphalia Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of International Organizations (IOs) in global governance?

To facilitate cooperation and address global issues beyond single states' capabilities Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect describes the significance of individuals in international relations compared to states and IOs?

The impact of individuals is often more situational and context-specific. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant outcome of the Arab Spring in Tunisia?

Transitioned to democracy Signup and view all the answers

What does the formula D = C x W represent in the context of deterrence?

Deterrence = Capabilities x Will/Credibility Signup and view all the answers

What is one major consequence of the intervention in Libya during the Arab Spring?

The country descended into chaos and civil war Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT considered a humanitarian reason for intervention according to the R2P framework?

Geopolitical alliances Signup and view all the answers

How does population distribution affect a state's economic power?

It centralizes influence in urban centers. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the principle of Mutual Assured Destruction (MAD)?

Avoids wars through reciprocal threat of punishment Signup and view all the answers

Which geographic features provide natural defenses that impact military strategy?

Deserts and mountains Signup and view all the answers

What influences a state's economic power in terms of trade?

Access to strategic trade routes Signup and view all the answers

Which country faced a humanitarian crisis as a result of the events during the Arab Spring?

Syria Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of Hinduism?

It encompasses diverse beliefs and practices. Signup and view all the answers

What is a problem often associated with international intervention?

Prolonged conflict with civilian casualties Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is typically a national interest that motivates intervention?

Strategic goals and security threats Signup and view all the answers

According to Samuel Huntington, what will future conflicts primarily arise from?

Cultural and religious identities Signup and view all the answers

What defines the regions classified as the Islamic World?

Regions dominated by Islamic practices and beliefs Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of religion significantly influences international relations?

Religious ideologies affecting political policies Signup and view all the answers

What is highlighted in Huntington's theory regarding civilizations?

Civilizations are characterized by shared cultural and religious identities. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Balance of Payments account include?

All international economic transactions including trade and financial transfers Signup and view all the answers

Which economic theory emerged to replace mercantilism in the mid-18th century?

Free trade theory Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of mercantilism?

Accumulating gold and silver to increase national power Signup and view all the answers

According to the concept of comparative advantage, what should a country focus on?

Producing goods that have the lowest opportunity cost Signup and view all the answers

What is one disadvantage of free trade?

It may lead to over-specialization Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes absolute advantage from comparative advantage?

Absolute advantage involves producing more using the same resources, while comparative focuses on efficiency relative to opportunity costs Signup and view all the answers

Which statement reflects a key benefit of free trade?

It lowers consumer costs and increases efficiency Signup and view all the answers

What does the Balance of Payments equation indicate about a country's economic transactions?

All economic transactions must balance to maintain economic stability Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary function of the IMF?

To lend to states experiencing Balance of Payments shortfalls. Signup and view all the answers

Which organization replaced GATT in 1993?

World Trade Organization Signup and view all the answers

What does liquidity refer to in the context of the IMF?

Access to available cash for meeting international obligations. Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of global income is received by the top 20% of the population?

75% Signup and view all the answers

What are some consequences of global inequality?

Perpetuates poverty and hinders development. Signup and view all the answers

How did the term 'Global South' evolve over time?

It began as a geopolitical term relating to conflicts during the Cold War. Signup and view all the answers

The Global North typically includes which of the following?

Wealthier industrialized nations like Japan and the U.S. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about structural reforms in IMF loans is accurate?

They are designed to facilitate trade and economic stability. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Basic IR Concepts

Actors in international relations include states, international organizations (IOs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and individuals.
States are fundamental to international relations as they control power, resources, and diplomacy. IOs are crucial for global cooperation, addressing issues like climate change and pandemics. NGOs represent civil society and advocate for issues like human rights. Individuals can have significant impacts during specific events.
States and IOs are still dominant actors, however. Individuals and NGOs are indispensable in shaping global politics.

State Definition and Evolution

A state is a political entity with key characteristics.
The modern state evolved from tribal, feudal, and imperial structures to the centralized, sovereign nation-states of today. Key milestones include the consolidation of monarchies, the Treaty of Westphalia, nationalism, the Industrial Revolution, and globalisation.
States today are still dominant actors, but influenced by global institutions and networks

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Description

This quiz covers essential concepts related to international relations, including the roles of states, international organizations, NGOs, and individuals. It also explores the evolution of the modern state from various historical structures. Test your understanding of these fundamental aspects of global politics.