International Relations and State Actors

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Questions and Answers

What are the defining characteristics of a state in the international system?

A state must have a defined territory, a permanent population, a government capable of controlling its territory, and recognition from other states.

How did the perception of states as the primary actors change after WWII?

The perception shifted as the influence of non-state actors increased, challenging the traditional state-centric views of international relations.

What distinguishes IGOs from NGOs in international relations?

IGOs are created by nation-states and consist of voluntary associations of sovereign states, while NGOs are independent entities established by individuals or groups.

Provide two examples of IGOs and explain their purpose.

Examples include the UN, which promotes international cooperation, and NATO, which provides collective defense among member states. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways do non-state actors challenge the state-centric concept of politics?

Non-state actors, by influencing economic, political, and cultural transactions, weaken the traditional dominance of states in international relations. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the roles of individuals and societies as non-state actors in international relations.

Individuals and societies engage across national borders in social and political transactions, impacting global discussions and policies. Signup and view all the answers

What contributed to the underestimation of nonstate actors by IR scholars post-WWII?

IR scholars initially focused on state interactions and ignored the complexities and contributions of non-state actors. Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of increased international collaborations between non-state actors?

Increased collaborations lead to enhanced political, economic, and cultural exchanges that can influence state policies. Signup and view all the answers

What are the main functions of intergovernmental organizations (IGOs)?

Rulemaking, agenda setting, and information gathering. Signup and view all the answers

How do NGOs create global networks?

They mobilize through transnational organizations, gathering information on global conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of multinational corporations (MNCs)?

Profit maximization. Signup and view all the answers

What concept explains the self-help condition in international relations?

Anarchy. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the security dilemma in realism.

It arises when one state's pursuit of power increases insecurity in others, prompting military build-up. Signup and view all the answers

Identify a key theorist of neo-realism and their contribution.

Kenneth Waltz, who focused on the international system's structure rather than state behavior. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'bandwagoning' in international relations?

When states align with a more powerful state instead of opposing it. Signup and view all the answers

What role do IGOs play in monitoring international law?

They monitor violations of principles and norms, such as the International Atomic Energy Agency in non-proliferation. Signup and view all the answers

How do MNCs influence a country's foreign policy?

By controlling large financial resources and setting political agendas. Signup and view all the answers

What impact do NGOs have on public understanding of international negotiations?

They enhance public understanding and increase transparency. Signup and view all the answers

What is the state-centric view in realism?

It emphasizes states as unitary entities acting rationally to secure national interests. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes neo-realism from classical realism?

Neo-realism focuses on the structure of the international system rather than individual state behaviors. Signup and view all the answers

How can IGOs reduce uncertainty between states?

By providing frameworks for cooperation and conflict resolution. Signup and view all the answers

What is relative gains in the context of realism?

States concern themselves with the power increase of others relative to their own gains. Signup and view all the answers

How do weak states contribute to the safe havens for terror groups?

Weak states provide unmonitored borders and internal division, allowing terror groups to operate without oversight. Signup and view all the answers

Who are often the primary victims of terrorism and why?

Civilians are often the primary victims as attacks are designed to send messages, amplified by media coverage. Signup and view all the answers

What is cyberterrorism and how is it conducted?

Cyberterrorism involves the use of technology, such as computers and the internet, to plan and execute attacks in the virtual world. Signup and view all the answers

What concerns does the USA PATRIOT Act raise regarding civil liberties?

The USA PATRIOT Act is designed to combat terrorism but raises concerns about potential infringements on civil liberties. Signup and view all the answers

What international treaty aims to limit global temperature rise and what are its main goals?

The Paris Climate Agreement aims to keep global temperature rise below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to limit it to 1.5°C. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways does climate change exacerbate existing environmental stresses?

Climate change acts as a threat multiplier, impacting food security and creating water scarcity. Signup and view all the answers

What are the direct health effects associated with climate change?

Direct effects include temperature-related illness and death, as well as health issues from extreme weather and air pollution. Signup and view all the answers

How does bioterrorism differ from other forms of terrorism?

Bioterrorism specifically involves using biological agents to cause harm, unlike other forms of terrorism that may use explosives or technology. Signup and view all the answers

What are some solutions and mitigation strategies proposed for combating climate change?

Key solutions include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, developing renewable energy sources, and implementing adaptation strategies. Signup and view all the answers

Why are poor countries particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change?

Poor countries are vulnerable due to their geographic location, dependence on agriculture, and limited resources for adaptation. Signup and view all the answers

What are the three primary resources that a country's soft power relies on?

Culture, political values/mode of governance, and foreign policies. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of neo-liberal institutionalism?

It focuses on building institutions to facilitate cooperation among states. Signup and view all the answers

How do liberalism and neo-liberal institutionalism differ in their actors?

Liberalism emphasizes states and domestic social actors, while neo-liberal institutionalism includes international organizations as actors. Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of collective security entail?

It involves states agreeing to abide by norms and band together to stop aggression. Signup and view all the answers

According to Marxism, what are the two main classes in society concerning the mode of production?

The bourgeoisie and the proletariat. Signup and view all the answers

What significance does colonialism hold in Marxist theory?

Colonialism is viewed as essential for capitalism to establish itself in non-capitalist societies. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary criticism of capitalism from a Marxist perspective?

Capitalism is characterized as a predatory economic system that exploits workers. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of international relations, how do liberalism and realism agree?

They both recognize that states operate within an anarchic international system. Signup and view all the answers

What do VNSAs stand for and provide two examples?

VNSAs stand for Violent Non-State Actors. Examples include warlords and insurgencies. Signup and view all the answers

Summarize the core idea of Democratic Peace Theory (DPT).

The core idea of DPT is that democracies are more peaceful in their interstate relations and rarely go to war with one another. Signup and view all the answers

How does neo-liberal institutionalism enhance cooperation among states?

It provides information and advice, lowering transaction costs and solving collective-action problems. Signup and view all the answers

What did Woodrow Wilson advocate for regarding international peace?

He argued for establishing international organizations to regulate international anarchy. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'McDonald's Peace' in the context of DPT?

'McDonald's Peace' refers to the notion that economic interdependence between democracies reduces the likelihood of conflict. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by class-consciousness in Marxism?

It refers to the awareness among members of a class regarding their shared interests and relations to the means of production. Signup and view all the answers

Identify two mechanisms through which democratic leaders are held accountable to their citizens.

Elections and media scrutiny are two mechanisms that hold democratic leaders accountable. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major challenge to the Democratic Peace Theory?

A major challenge is the definitional problem related to what constitutes a democracy or a liberal democracy. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of international institutions according to neo-liberal institutionalism?

They mitigate anarchy and enhance cooperation among states. Signup and view all the answers

What does Marx identify as the dominant actor in the international system?

Class is the dominant actor, driving conflicts within the system. Signup and view all the answers

According to the FBI, how is terrorism defined?

The FBI defines terrorism as the unlawful use or threatened use of force or violence against persons or property for political or social objectives. Signup and view all the answers

What does the EU Directive on Combatting Terrorism focus on?

The EU Directive focuses on acts committed with the aim of seriously intimidating a population. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Marxist view on the relationship between religion and social class?

Marxists see religion as a tool that keeps people submissive and distracts them from their economic realities. Signup and view all the answers

What does liberalism suggest about capitalism's tendency in society?

Liberalism suggests that capitalism tends towards equilibrium and stability. Signup and view all the answers

What significant impact does lacking a clear definition of terrorism have on international efforts?

Without a clear definition, it's difficult to formulate international agreements and enforce extradition for terror offenses. Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what is the role of class struggle in capitalist societies?

Class struggle is essential as it reflects the exploitation of labor by the bourgeoisie over the proletariat. Signup and view all the answers

List two forms of violence typically associated with terrorism.

Bombings and hostage-taking are two forms of violence commonly associated with terrorism. Signup and view all the answers

How does domestic terrorism differ from transnational terrorism?

Domestic terrorism involves unlawful violence within a country's borders without foreign direction, while transnational terrorism crosses borders. Signup and view all the answers

What key assumption does constructivism hold regarding international relations?

Constructivism asserts that international relations are socially constructed realities influenced by identities and norms. Signup and view all the answers

How do belief systems influence the actions of countries in international politics?

Countries' actions are influenced by their historical, cultural, and social contexts rather than solely by material interests. Signup and view all the answers

Describe one major issue with understanding radicalization processes in terrorism.

Radicalization processes are poorly understood, making it difficult to address the root causes of extremism. Signup and view all the answers

What type of terrorists are often ignored in mainstream literature according to the content provided?

State terrorists are often ignored in mainstream literature despite their significant impact. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'mutual constitution' in constructivist theory?

Mutual constitution refers to the idea that identities and interests are shaped by continuous interactions between agents and structures. Signup and view all the answers

In constructivism, how is anarchy perceived in international relations?

Anarchy is seen as a socially constructed reality shaped by states' interpretations and interactions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the distinction between terrorism and other criminal acts?

The distinction lies in the political or social ideology behind terrorist acts, which motivates their execution. Signup and view all the answers

What role does language play in constructivist analysis?

Language is pivotal in understanding how identities and meanings are constructed in international relations. Signup and view all the answers

What defines non-traditional security (NTS) as opposed to traditional security?

Non-traditional security focuses on non-military challenges, expanding the referent object of security beyond states to include human security. Signup and view all the answers

What is a major critique of traditional security measures?

A major critique is that traditional security narrowly focuses on military threats while ignoring broader issues. Signup and view all the answers

According to constructivist theory, what can change the international system?

Changes in the international system can occur through new ideas and social processes. Signup and view all the answers

How do states' identities influence patterns of cooperation and conflict?

States' identities shape their relationships, reinforcing patterns of amity or enmity through repeated interactions. Signup and view all the answers

What standard does a norm represent in international politics?

A norm represents a standard for appropriate behavior within a specific identity. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the constructivist from the realist view of chemical weapons?

Constructivists see chemical weapons as morally unacceptable, whereas realists view them as powerful tools in power dynamics. Signup and view all the answers

In what context can violent non-state actors (VNSAs) emerge?

VNSAs can emerge in states that lack legitimacy, authority, and effective governance. Signup and view all the answers

What does neo-realism emphasize in international relations compared to traditional realism?

Neo-realism shifts focus from individual state characteristics to systemic structures. Signup and view all the answers

What is the security dilemma in the context of international relations?

The security dilemma illustrates challenges in achieving cooperation due to mutual distrust and competition for relative gains. Signup and view all the answers

What primary concern drives state behavior according to neo-realism?

The primary concern of states is survival. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does balancing differ from bandwagoning as strategies in realism?

Balancing involves forming alliances against a rising power, while bandwagoning means aligning with the rising power for potential benefits. Signup and view all the answers

How is Russia's invasion of Ukraine understood from a realist perspective?

Russia's invasion is seen as a response to NATO's eastward expansion, which threatened its sphere of influence. Signup and view all the answers

What is the view of liberalism on the capability of individuals and states?

Liberalism believes individuals are capable of rational thought and that states can cooperate for mutual benefit. Signup and view all the answers

What role do international institutions play in liberalism?

International institutions help states to cooperate under anarchy by providing frameworks for interaction. Signup and view all the answers

According to Kant, what features must states share for international peace to emerge?

States must share representative democracy, adherence to international law, and advanced commercial integration. Signup and view all the answers

What is the key difference between hard power and soft power?

Hard power is the ability to use force or coercion, while soft power influences through attraction and persuasion. Signup and view all the answers

What assumption underlies neoliberalism in relation to state behavior?

Neoliberalism shares the assumption that states are rational actors pursuing self-interest in an anarchic system. Signup and view all the answers

How does liberalism view the importance of economic interdependence?

Liberalism views economic interdependence as essential for reducing the likelihood of war. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of neo-realism, why is the concept of anarchy significant?

Anarchy signifies the lack of a central authority, shaping the behavior of states in the international system. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'absolute gains' in liberalism, and how does it differ from 'relative gains'?

Absolute gains refer to the overall benefits that a state receives, regardless of others' outcomes, unlike relative gains, which are comparative. Signup and view all the answers

What potential does liberalism see for international peace through democratic governance?

Liberalism suggests that republican governments based on people's consent can enhance cooperation and lead to peace. Signup and view all the answers

What impact does domestic politics have on international relations according to liberalism?

Domestic politics, including leadership styles and regime types, significantly influence international affairs. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Actors in International Relations

International relations involves states, groups of states, societies, and individuals.
Actors are entities influencing international relations.
Actors are categorized into state actors and non-state actors.
State actors are states; the international system is a system of states.
State requirements include a defined territory, permanent population, controlling government, and recognition from other states.
Nation-states historically were primary actors, but non-state actors gained importance since WWII and the end of the Cold War.
Non-state actors include international organizations, multinational corporations, and individuals.
Growing influence of non-state actors challenges the state-centric view.

Non-State Actors

Non-state actors (transnational actors) operate across borders.
International organizations (IGOs) were established post-WWII but were underappreciated.
Growing global transactions (economic, political, social, cultural) signal their increasing influence.
IGOs are formed by states for shared objectives with formal structures (e.g., UN, EU, NATO, IMF).
NGOs are non-state actors created by individuals, businesses, etc., for missions like poverty relief, social service, community development, environmental protection.

IGOs vs NGOs

IGOs are formed via treaties by states for shared interests.
IGO functions include rulemaking, agenda-setting, information gathering, resolving international problems, and monitoring norms.
NGOs are independent of governments, have diverse missions, operate globally, and employ networks for transnational organization.
NGOs play a vital role in foreign aid and state cooperation, acting as information sources, policy advisors, and advocates for change.

MNCs (Multinational Corporations)

MNCs operate in multiple countries, with significant global economic impact (generating wealth and societal changes).
Major MNCs are headquartered in the US, Europe, and Japan.
They have significant bargaining power with governments due to financial resources and cross-border activities.

Levels of Analysis Debate

International relations include the system, state, individual, and group levels for analysis.

Realism and Neo-Realism

Realism: States are central actors, pursuing national interests (security, power) in an anarchic system.
Neo-Realism (Structural Realism): International relations are determined by the distribution of power, rather than state characteristics.
Realist strategies include balancing against more dominant powers (building military capabilities or forming alliances), or bandwagoning with them.
Neorealists examine unipolar, bipolar, and multipolar systems.
Russia's invasion of Ukraine can be interpreted through a realist lens.

Liberalism

Liberalism emphasizes cooperation and peace through institutional reforms and collective action.
Liberal thought is rooted in the Enlightenment and emphasizes rational individuals and societal improvement.
Key characteristics include support for democracy, free trade, and minimal government intervention.
International relations are influenced by international institutions and states' relationships.
Neoliberalism builds on realism by acknowledging state self-interest, but emphasizing cooperation.
Complex interdependence means states are connected through multiple channels (beyond military engagement) and numerous issues.
International institutions foster cooperation by reducing uncertainty and transaction costs.
Cooperation through absolute gains (mutually beneficial outcomes) supports a win-win scenario.
Hard power (coercion & payment) vs soft power (attraction & persuasion). Soft power depends on culture, values, and foreign policy (legitimacy, fairness, and morality).

Marxism

Marxism emphasizes class conflict (bourgeoisie vs proletariat) as the driver of international relations, rather than state-centric interests.
Historical materialism suggests economic conditions form group consciousness, impacting international outcomes.
Capitalism is considered a predatory system with the potential for widespread exploitation and unsustainable practices.
Capitalism drives class struggle and, according to Marx, international exploitation.

Constructivism

Social Constructivism is a recent theory focusing on ideas, norms, and social structures influencing state behavior.
Material interests are not the sole driver, but rather, belief systems and social contexts (culture, history, political trends, etc). are equally influential.
Identities and interests are mutually constructed in social interactions.
The international system is not inherently anarchic; meanings, interpretations, and norms are dependent on social interaction.
Language and discourse are essential for understanding how meanings and identities are constructed.

International Security

International security encompasses measures to ensure states' survival and safety (military action, diplomatic agreements).
Traditional security focuses on military threats; non-traditional security examines broader threats (e.g., climate change, human security, transnational issues)

Democratic Peace Theory (DPT)

DPT suggests democracies are less likely to fight each other due to shared values, economic interdependence, and public restraint.
Causes of peaceful behavior among democracies are attributable to institutional checks and balances, democratic leaders' accountability, shared norms of peace, and similar ideologies.

Terrorism

Terrorism is politically motivated; publicity is a key component. Diverse definitions exist (often vague and contested).
Terrorism involves acts designed for maximum fear and propaganda; perpetrators and victims are involved. Terrorism varies in nature, goals, and actors.

Climate Change

Climate change involves large-scale, long-term shifts in Earth's weather patterns and temperatures.
Scientific evidence documents rising temperatures, altered weather patterns, and ice melting.
Climate change impacts global health (directly and indirectly), security (resource conflicts), and social stability through displacement and economic impact.
The Paris Climate Agreement sets goals to limit global temperature increases, necessitating international cooperation.

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Description

This quiz explores the defining characteristics of states and the evolution of their roles in international relations, especially post-World War II. It examines the distinctions between intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), as well as the impact of non-state actors and multinational corporations on global politics.