BSPOL 1312 International Relations: Neo-Neo Debate

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the main theme of the neo-realist theory proposed by Kenneth Waltz?

International system structures induce war. (correct)

Internal causes within states lead to war.

Cultural differences are the root of military conflict.

Human nature causes conflicts.

During which time period did the 'détente' phase of the Cold War occur?

1962-1975 (correct)

1956-1961

1945-1953

1979-1985

What does the 'billiard ball model' in neo-realist theory signify?

The unpredictable nature of human behavior.

The cultural influence on state behavior.

The cooperative nature of international alliances.

The isolated interactions of states in the international system. (correct)

How does Kenneth Waltz define the concept of anarchy in the international system?

As a condition where states seek survival. Signup and view all the answers

Which stage of the Cold War is characterized as 'peaceful coexistence'?

1956-1961 Signup and view all the answers

In Waltz's differentiation principle, what are states said to primarily differ in?

Their capabilities to handle internal and external problems. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'balance of power' refer to in Kenneth Waltz's theory?

A condition where no single state can sufficiently threaten another. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant consequence of the Third-image theories mentioned by Kenneth Waltz?

They emphasize the structural issues of the international system. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of neo-realism in international relations?

The relative distribution of power in the system Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes bipolar systems?

They have fewer great-power conflicts. Signup and view all the answers

According to Mearsheimer's offensive realism, what motivates states in the international system?

Seeking to establish regional hegemony. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key implication of the balance-of-power logic in international relations?

States may ally with rivals against common threats. Signup and view all the answers

What does Mearsheimer assert about the role of international institutions?

They are primarily platforms for power dynamics. Signup and view all the answers

In terms of international relations, what does the term 'anarchy' refer to in Mearsheimer's theories?

The lack of a central authority in the international system. Signup and view all the answers

What is considered one of the reasons bipolar systems are viewed as more stable?

Deterrence becomes more feasible. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following characterizes cooperation among states according to Mearsheimer?

It often hinges on relative gains rather than absolute gains. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of classical realism in international politics?

Human nature Signup and view all the answers

In the context of neo-realism, what does 'anarchy' refer to?

The lack of overarching authority Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best represents the stance of neo-liberal institutionalists on cooperation?

Cooperation is beneficial for all states. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason states may resort to cooperation according to neo-realists?

For security interests Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario best illustrates the strategic domain of cooperation?

Military alliances Signup and view all the answers

According to the neo-neo synthesis, states' cooperation in the economic domain is considered to be what type of game?

A positive-sum game Signup and view all the answers

What outcome do both classical and neo-realists agree upon regarding the balance of power?

It can lead to stability within the international system. Signup and view all the answers

What term describes the situation when cooperation is challenging due to security concerns among states?

Relative gains focus Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Course Information

Course: BSPOL 1312 International Relations
Academic Year: 2024/2025
Class: 5 - The Neo-Neo Debate
Lecturer: Dr. Valentina Brogna (replacing Prof. Amandine Orsini)

The Great Debates

Idealists vs. realists (1930-1950): I, II, III
Traditionalists vs. behavioralists (1940-1960): I, II, III
Classical theories vs. Marxist theories and transnationalism (1970-1990): IV, V
Positivists vs. post-positivists (1990-2012): VI

Starter: The Behavioralist Turn

This session is a starting point for exploring the behavioralist perspective in international relations theory.

The Traditional and Behavioral Approach

The traditional approach relies on judgment and observation, viewing international relations as a complex field influenced by philosophy, history, and laws.
It views generalized statements about international relations as tentative and inconclusive.
The behavioral approach focuses on identifying recurring patterns and using operational concepts with measurable empirical reference.
It emphasizes precise data gathering, measurement, and presentation.

The Prisoner's Dilemma

A game theory concept illustrating the difficulty of cooperation in an anarchic system.
The optimal outcome for individuals is often not the best overall outcome.

Neo-Realism

The study of international relations focuses on the structure of the system and relative power distribution (external to the actors).

The Cold War

A period of political, strategic, military, and ideological opposition between two antagonistic blocs (US-led and USSR-led).
The two superpowers did not directly engage in conflict but had opposing global ideological and strategic interests.
Stages: Containment (1945-1953), Peaceful Coexistence (1956-1961), Acute Crises (1961-1962), Détente (1962-1975), Tense Observation (1979-1985), End of the Cold War (1985-1991).

Neo-Realist Theory: Kenneth Waltz

Proponent of neo-realism.
Key works include Man, the State, and War (1959) and Theory of International Politics (1979).
Third-image theory: War is caused by features of the international system (anarchy).

A "Third-Image" Theory

Waltz's theory, examining the international system as a cause of war.
It argues that the anarchic nature of the international system, without a global sovereign, leads to constant power competition and potential conflict.

The Balance of Power

Waltz's billiard-ball model: States interact like billiard balls in an anarchic system; the constant pursuit of security and survival often leads to a balance of power.

States and Power Differentials

States vary in their capabilities, with great powers having more influence on international system changes.
Power differentials between states significantly shape international relations.
Change occurs when great powers rise and fall, shifting the balance of power.

Multipolar/Bipolar Systems

Bipolar systems (e.g., Cold War) are more stable and peaceful than multipolar systems.
Reasons include fewer great power conflicts, deterrence, and lower miscalculation risks.

Offensive Realism: John J. Mearsheimer

Mearsheimer argues that anarchy leads to maximum levels of power competition.
States seek regional hegemony and continuous power accumulation to ensure survival and status.
"Great powers are always searching for opportunities to gain power over their rivals, with hegemony as their final goal."

Tragedy of Great Power Politics (Mearsheimer)

Cooperation exists, but it's hard to achieve and sustain.
Institutions are arenas for power relations, not necessarily for cooperation.

Neo-Liberal Institutionalism

International regimes promote cooperation through absolute gains.
Institutions facilitate cooperation based on shared interests and mutual benefits; cooperation is a positive-sum game.

International institutions are important for information sharing to facilitate cooperation in world politics, but barriers can exist.

Reputation

International institutions help build reputations for cooperation and trustworthiness, encouraging states to cooperate.

Imitation

Imitation among actors (states) is an important mechanism through which international institutions can help cooperation.

Charter of the United Nations Article 1

Outlines the role of the UN in maintaining peace and security (absolute gains).

Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT)

The NPT promotes norms and principles discouraging nuclear proliferation, creating a framework for behavior in a dangerous domain.
Successes include the limited number of nuclear weapons states, and the prevention of major conflicts.

Neo-liberal Institutionalism (summary)

International regimes are vital for global cooperation.
Cooperation stems from absolute gains.

Neo-Neo Debate Synthesis

Keohane and Grieco posit that cooperation is easier in the economic realm, where absolute gains predominate, but harder in strategic domains, where relative gains are more critical.

Baldwin 1993 (Extract)

Neo-realism and neo-liberalism are discussed as theories to understand the contemporary international debate.

Keohane vs. Grieco

Keohane (positive-sum cooperation) vs. Grieco (zero-sum cooperation).
The debate highlights competing perspectives on the incentives and nature of cooperation among states.

Neo-realists vs. Neo-liberal Institutionalists

Neo-realism emphasises states' concern with security, relative gains, power, and conflict as inherent to the anarchic system.
Neo-liberalism emphasizes collective gains, the value of cooperation, and the importance of international institutions in facilitating cooperation.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz explores the Neo-Neo debate in international relations, focusing on the clash between traditional and behavioral approaches. It aims to provide an understanding of how these perspectives have shaped the field from the 1930s to 2012. Assess your grasp of key concepts and theorists influencing this critical discourse.