International Relations Concepts Quiz

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a motivation for bandwagoning?

  • Security
  • Ideology (correct)
  • Profit
  • Opportunism

In the context of the security dilemma, what is a key factor contributing to a state's misperception of another's actions?

  • Strong alliances between states
  • Economic interdependence between nations
  • Shared cultural values and history
  • Absence of credible commitments (correct)

How can a state increase the credibility of its commitments?

  • By engaging in diplomatic negotiations to resolve disputes peacefully
  • By consistently acting in accordance with its declared policies and promises (correct)
  • By increasing its military spending to deter potential threats
  • By forming alliances with other states to demonstrate its strength

Which of the following is NOT a factor contributing to the dynamic of the security dilemma?

<p>High levels of international cooperation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of "signaling" as it relates to credible commitments?

<p>Clearly communicating intentions and actions to build trust (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can a state's reputation affect its ability to make credible commitments?

<p>A poor reputation can undermine trust in its promises and threats (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the most accurate statement regarding the relationship between bandwagoning and the security dilemma?

<p>The security dilemma encourages states to bandwagon to seek protection (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a consequence of the security dilemma?

<p>Economic recession and instability (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a direct implication of anarchy in the international system?

<p>States are subject to the rule of law enforced by a global authority. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a core principle of self-help in the international system?

<p>States must rely on their own resources and capabilities to protect their interests. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements BEST describes the relationship between anarchy and interdependence?

<p>Anarchy and interdependence are separate concepts that can coexist in the international system. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key reason why states focus on the capabilities of other actors rather than their intentions in an anarchic system?

<p>Intentions can change quickly and unpredictably, making them unreliable indicators of future behavior. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a valid method of balancing power in the international system?

<p>Economic sanctions against powerful states (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST explains why a hegemon might threaten the security of other states?

<p>Hegemons may see other states as potential rivals and threats to their own power and influence. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the concept of strategic interdependence?

<p>States are mutually reliant on each other for resources and capabilities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a potential disadvantage of internal balancing as a means of balancing power?

<p>It can be a very expensive and time-consuming process. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key difference between anarchy and interdependence?

<p>Anarchy emphasizes the absence of a central authority, while interdependence emphasizes the interconnectedness of states. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Anarchy

The lack of a central authority in the international system.

State Sovereignty

States have ultimate authority within their own borders.

Self Help

The principle that states rely on their own resources for security without global authority.

International Uncertainty

States are unsure about each other's intentions.

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Strategic Interdependence

A state’s success depends on the choices of others, facing mutual costs if relationships end.

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Balancing Power

States counterbalance threats from stronger states to maintain security.

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Hegemon

A state with a preponderance of power that can threaten others' security.

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Internal Balancing

Building up military strength within a state to enhance security.

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External Balancing

Forming alliances to strengthen defense without costly buildup.

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Bandwagoning

A strategy where weaker states align with stronger, rising powers for benefits.

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Motivation for Bandwagoning

Reasons states bandwagon include security, profit, and opportunism.

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Security Dilemma

When efforts to increase one's security make others feel threatened, causing conflict.

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Misperception in Security Dilemma

Defensive actions seen as offensive escalate tensions.

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Lack of Trust

Uncertainty about a state's intentions fueling security issues.

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Arms Races

A common outcome of the security dilemma where states build up military strength.

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Credible Commitments

A state's ability to assure others it will follow through on threats or promises.

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Factors of Credible Commitments

Reputation and capabilities enhance a state's credibility.

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Study Notes

International Relations Concepts

  • Anarchy: The absence of a central governing body in the international system. States are the primary actors with ultimate authority within their borders. There's no higher power to enforce rules or agreements, forcing states to rely on themselves (self-help).

Self-Help

  • Definition: The principle that states must rely on their own resources and capabilities for security and achieving goals in an anarchic system.

  • Implications: States are uncertain about each other's intentions, focusing on capabilities rather than intentions. This can lead to perceived threats and potential conflicts.

Interdependence

  • Definition: The interconnectedness of states in the international system, where choices by one state affect others.

  • Nature: Not the opposite of anarchy. Strategic interdependence means states' ability to achieve goals is tied to other states' actions. Ending a relationship carries costs for all parties. It does not imply harmony or diminish the importance of power.

Balancing Power

  • Hegemon: A state with overwhelming power.

  • Balancing: States balance against powerful hegemons to prevent the threat to their security, (existence).

  • Internal Balancing: Increasing military strength (e.g., building arms).

  • External Balancing: Forming alliances with other states to increase overall power. Requires trust

Bandwagoning

  • Definition: A strategy where weaker states align with a stronger, emerging power for security, profit, or opportunistic reasons.

Security Dilemma

  • Definition: A situation where efforts to enhance security by one state can be perceived as threatening by others, potentially leading to increased tensions and conflict, even if the initial actions were defensive.

  • Dynamics: Misperceptions of intentions (defensive vs. offensive actions). Lack of trust between states. Arms races can exacerbate the problem.

Credible Commitments

  • Definition: The ability of a state to convince other states that it will follow through on its promises or threats.

  • Factors:

  • Reputation: A history of fulfilling commitments.

  • Capabilities: The state's actual ability to meet its commitments or carry out its threats.

  • Signaling: Clear and consistent communication of intentions to prevent misinterpretations.

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