9 Questions
What does Sylvester emphasize in the traditional approaches to International Relations?
The focus on impersonal actors, structures, and processes
What is the conventional view of the world in terms of actors?
States are the primary actors
In international relations, what aspect does Sylvester suggest is often overlooked?
The influence of individuals in decision-making
What question does the text pose regarding the operation of states?
Do individuals have a significant role in steering states?
What is one purpose of making assumptions about nation-states according to the text?
To generalize and identify patterns
Which aspect of state behavior is the text suggesting we need to understand in order to arrive at theories about them?
The role of individuals in decision-making
According to Sylvester, what enables us to draw conclusions in International Relations?
Studying cases that defy patterns
What major theme does Sylvester explore about nation-states in her book?
'Decision-making' within state structures
How does Sylvester challenge the notion of state monolithic entities?
'Individuals' shaping state direction
Study Notes
Declaring War on Non-State Actors
- Declaring war on a non-state actor, such as a terrorist group, may require violating the sovereignty of a nation-state to attack the group within its borders.
- Non-state actors, like terrorist groups and multinational corporations (MNCs), play a critical role in influencing international decisions and affecting nation-states.
Multinational Corporations (MNCs)
- MNCs, such as Wal-Mart, have significant influence on multiple countries and the international system as a whole.
- The levels-of-analysis approach helps understand the role of MNCs and their impact on globalization.
International Relations (IR)
- IR examines who makes decisions, from governments to individual decision-makers, and how those decisions affect people, society, culture, or individuals within nation-states.
- IR looks at the "big picture" questions and considers the interrelated and interdependent nature of nation-states and non-state actors.
Non-State Actors and Nation-States
- Non-state actors, like terrorist groups, have emerged as major players in the international system, affecting the behavior of states.
- The presence of non-state actors has challenged traditional IR questions and approaches.
Understanding Decision-Making
- Understanding who makes decisions for nation-states and non-state actors is crucial to understanding international relations.
- Individuals play a significant role in steering the direction of a state, and their decisions can have a profound impact on international relations.
Assumptions and Theories
- Making assumptions about nation-states and their behavior allows us to generalize and identify patterns in international relations.
- These assumptions can help us draw conclusions and understand cases that don't fit the patterns.
Explore the concept of declaring war on nonstate actors and the impact of their influence in the international system. Learn about the role of multinational corporations and terrorist groups in shaping decisions at a global level.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
