International Relations Overview

Understanding International Relations

• Nationalism is a powerful force in international affairs, driving revolutions and wars. Nation-states are considered the fundamental political unit.
• The terms "nation," "state," and "country" are not interchangeable. Nations evolve organically from ethnic communities, while states are political entities.
• The concept of the "nation-state" emerged in the late 18th century, with nations seeking to control states for their needs.
• The revolutions in America (1776) and France (1789) influenced other nationalist movements.
• The Congress of Vienna (1815) aimed to restore pre-revolutionary Europe but failed to prevent the growth of nationalism.
• Nationalism was associated with the right of self-determination, becoming a foundational principle after World War 1, leading to the formation of many nation-states.
• International relations are unavoidable due to interconnectedness in geography, ideas and social interaction.
• Originally, the study of international relations was a branch of law.
• The study now encompasses many social interactions, including conflicts, conferences, and crimes.
• The international system is anarchic, pluralistic and diverse. Each state must consider "foreigners."
• Domestic and international politics differ. Domestic law is enforced using courts and police, while international law lacks unified enforcement.

Actors in International Relations

• International politics is complex, with many actors beyond states.
• States are the central actors, considered sovereign, with territorial boundaries and independence.
• Non-state actors (firms, international organizations, NGOs) significantly impact international relations.
• Multinational corporations (MNCs) play an increasing role through operations in various countries.
• Transnational issues (like global crime and economic crises) challenge traditional state-centric understandings.

Levels of Analysis in IR

• Individual level: Analysis of individual leaders' roles and motivations in international conflicts.
• Group level: Influence of groups within states (political parties, interest groups, bureaucracies) on policy.
• State level: Focus on the state as the primary actor, analyzing interactions, cooperation, and crises.
• System level: Focus on the distribution of power, the global structure, and the role of international institutions including the United Nations.

Theories of International Relations

• Idealism/Liberalism: Believes in human goodness, peaceful relations, and international cooperation through institutions.
• Realism: Emphasizes power struggles, competition, and the self-interest of states in an anarchic system.
• Structuralism/Marxism: Views international relations through a class-based lens, emphasizing inequality and exploitation.
• Constructivism: Highlights the role of ideas, norms, and social structures in shaping international relations.
• Critical theories: challenge mainstream approaches by focusing on power imbalances, marginalized perspectives, and global injustices.

Structure of the International System

• International systems are often described as unipolar (one dominant power), bipolar (two major powers), or multipolar (multiple significant powers).
• Power amongst states determines the structure of the system.
• Anarchy describes the lack of centralized authority in the international system, with states relying on self-help.