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Questions and Answers
What is the main reason why a bipolar system is considered more stable according to realist theory?
What is the main reason why a bipolar system is considered more stable according to realist theory?
What is the security dilemma in a self-help system?
What is the security dilemma in a self-help system?
According to Kenneth Waltz, what is the effect of an increase in the number of international actors on uncertainty?
According to Kenneth Waltz, what is the effect of an increase in the number of international actors on uncertainty?
What is the central claim of the hegemonic stability thesis?
What is the central claim of the hegemonic stability thesis?
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According to Mearsheimer, what is the likely outcome of the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War?
According to Mearsheimer, what is the likely outcome of the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War?
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What is the primary concern of states in a self-help system?
What is the primary concern of states in a self-help system?
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What is the role of balance-of-power politics in regulating the security dilemma?
What is the role of balance-of-power politics in regulating the security dilemma?
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What is the main difference between a bipolar and multipolar system, according to realist theory?
What is the main difference between a bipolar and multipolar system, according to realist theory?
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What is the primary goal of states according to realists?
What is the primary goal of states according to realists?
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What is the term used to describe the fluctuations in alliances between states to preserve the balance of power?
What is the term used to describe the fluctuations in alliances between states to preserve the balance of power?
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What is the primary focus of realists in international relations?
What is the primary focus of realists in international relations?
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What is the character of world politics according to realists?
What is the character of world politics according to realists?
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What is the primary driving force behind the formation of defensive alliances, according to realists?
What is the primary driving force behind the formation of defensive alliances, according to realists?
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Which of the following is an example of a balance of power strategy?
Which of the following is an example of a balance of power strategy?
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What is the outcome of the pursuit of power, according to realists?
What is the outcome of the pursuit of power, according to realists?
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What is the primary characteristic of international relations, according to realists?
What is the primary characteristic of international relations, according to realists?
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What is the primary way to evaluate the power of the USA according to realism?
What is the primary way to evaluate the power of the USA according to realism?
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What is the dynamic definition of power, according to the alternative definition?
What is the dynamic definition of power, according to the alternative definition?
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What is a way for states to achieve power, according to the text?
What is a way for states to achieve power, according to the text?
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What is a characteristic of alliances, according to the text?
What is a characteristic of alliances, according to the text?
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What is an indicator of power, according to David Singer?
What is an indicator of power, according to David Singer?
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Why is Japan's economic power dependent on its military ties with the US, according to the text?
Why is Japan's economic power dependent on its military ties with the US, according to the text?
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What is the main problem in achieving cooperation among states, according to the text?
What is the main problem in achieving cooperation among states, according to the text?
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What is the characteristic of the international system that makes cooperation difficult, according to the text?
What is the characteristic of the international system that makes cooperation difficult, according to the text?
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Study Notes
Polarity and System Stability
- A bipolar system is allegedly more stable than a multi-polar system since the power balance between superpowers can be more accurately and reliably calculated.
- Kenneth Waltz argues that uncertainty increases as the number of international actors increase, making it more likely for a decision-maker to misjudge the intentions and actions of a potential foe.
Security Dilemma
- In a self-help system, it is rational to assume the worst, even if a state is arming for defensive purposes, as it is difficult to be sure of a rival's intentions.
- The security dilemma is regulated by balance-of-power politics.
Hegemonic Stability Thesis
- Neo-realism claims a central place in international political economy, arguing that a necessary condition for the formation and maintenance of a liberal international economy is that a single state should be able and willing to invest the resources and bear the burdens associated with the operation of such an economic order.
Balance of Power Mentality
- Realists believe that states tend to balance against challengers through the formation of defensive alliances, which is a strong behavioral expectation about the effects of anarchy on states.
- All states are obliged to pursue a balance of power strategy.
The History of European States
- The 18th Century saw principal states like Britain, France, Austria, Prussia, and Russia changing sides to preserve the balance of power.
- Napoleonic France attempted to destroy the European balance and establish French hegemony but was defeated by a European coalition.
- The Concert of Europe (1815-1914) maintained peace through flexible and overlapping alliances to ensure a balance of power as a deterrent to war.
Focus on Power
- Realists focus on actual or potential conflict between state actors and the use of force, examining how international stability is attained or maintained.
- Power is a key concept, with states aiming to gain power and considering military, security, or strategic issues as 'high politics'.
- Economic and social issues are viewed as less important or 'low politics'.
Realist Description of IR
- Interstate politics is a permanent bargaining game over the distribution of power, describing world politics as a state of war and a struggle for power.
Achieving Power
- States can achieve power by their own means, such as through population, industrialization, science, and technology.
- States can also achieve power through alliances, which are conditional and apply only if they remain in the power interests of the state.
Measurement and Indicators of Power
- Defense expenditures, military personnel, iron and steel production, energy consumption, total population, and gross national product (GNP) are indicators of power.
- David Singer emphasizes military, industrial, and demographic capabilities as crucial indicators.
Cooperation
- In an anarchical, self-help system, cooperation is difficult to achieve due to the uncertainty of knowing whether others will cooperate.
- The stag hunt dilemma illustrates the difficulty of cooperation, as individuals may choose to serve their self-interest rather than the common interest.
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Description
This quiz covers the concepts of bipolar and multi-polar systems, self-help situations and security dilemmas in international relations.