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Questions and Answers
What does the rise of populism in countries like the U.S. and the UK challenge?
Which of the following examples showcases a departure from liberal internationalist values?
Which of the following countries' actions underline the challenges to the idealist belief in the triumph of international law?
What limitation of idealism is revealed through the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic?
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How does the competition in AI development signify a challenge to idealism?
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Economic interdependence is described as what type of factor in international relations?
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What is a direct consequence of rising protectionism and economic nationalism?
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Which organization aimed to promote equitable access to vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic?
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What is a key belief of idealism in international relations?
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Which entity is an example of idealism's manifestation in addressing global issues?
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How did Western countries respond to the Ukraine crisis in line with idealist principles?
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Which institution seeks to ensure accountability for war crimes and reflects idealist principles?
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In relation to global economic interdependence, which aspect supports the idealist view?
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What does realism primarily focus on in contrast to idealism?
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What is a significant challenge faced by idealism in contemporary international relations?
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Which of the following is not a focus of idealist theories in international relations?
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Study Notes
Idealism in International Relations
- Idealism, also known as liberal internationalism, emphasizes cooperation, international law, and global governance, aiming for a peaceful global order shaped by evolving human nature.
- Contrasts with realism, which sees global politics as anarchic, motivated by self-interest and power dynamics.
Global Institutions and Cooperation
- Climate change efforts exemplify idealism; the Paris Agreement and UN initiatives reflect the belief in international cooperation for collective solutions.
- COP28 summit showcases nations aligning climate goals for achieving global net-zero emissions.
Human Rights and Humanitarian Interventions
- The Ukraine crisis underscores idealism as Western nations impose sanctions and provide aid, highlighting sovereignty, democracy, and human rights.
- Collective responses reflect moral responsibilities, though idealism's limits are evident as the conflict persists.
International Law and Governance
- Idealism underpins institutions like the International Criminal Court (ICC), which aims to hold individuals accountable for war crimes.
- The ICC’s efforts in investigating human rights violations in Syria, Myanmar, and Ukraine illustrate a commitment to a rules-based order but face challenges from major powers ignoring its jurisdiction.
Global Economic Interdependence
- The interconnected global economy exemplifies idealist principles, with organizations like the WTO and EU promoting economic cooperation to prevent conflicts.
- Economic nationalism and protectionism, such as U.S.-China trade tensions, pose challenges yet global interdependence remains a stabilizing factor.
Challenges to Idealism: Populism and Authoritarianism
- The rise of populism in countries like the U.S., UK (Brexit), and parts of Europe challenges idealist visions of global governance, favoring sovereignty and nationalism.
- Trump's "America First" policy marked a shift away from liberal values, undermining institutions like NATO and the UN.
- The assertive behaviors of China and Russia, through initiatives like China's Belt and Road and Russia's actions in Crimea, further challenge idealist principles and highlight a realist approach.
Humanitarian Aid and Global Health
- The global response to the COVID-19 pandemic reflects both the potential and limitations of idealism, with WHO and COVAX promoting equitable vaccine access.
- Vaccine nationalism illustrates the predominance of national interests over cooperative idealist goals.
Technology and Cybersecurity
- Idealism advocates for global regulations to manage risks associated with advancements in AI and cybersecurity.
- However, competition between nations, especially the U.S., China, and Europe, indicates a potential arms race that could outpace cooperative governance efforts.
Conclusion
- Idealism continues to influence global norms and institutions significantly.
- Despite its persistent role, idealism is increasingly challenged by rising nationalism and geopolitical tensions.
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Description
Explore the principles of idealism in international relations, contrasting it with realism. This quiz covers key topics such as global cooperation, humanitarian interventions, and the role of international law. Understand how these concepts shape global governance and responses to crises.
