Key Concepts in International Politics

Definition: International politics refers to the interactions between sovereign states, as well as between states and non-state actors, that impact global relations.

Realism:
- Focuses on state interests and power.
- Assumes that states are rational actors in an anarchic international system.
- Key concepts: national interest, power balance, security dilemma.
Liberalism:
- Emphasizes cooperation and interdependence among states.
- Advocates for international institutions and norms to promote peace.
- Key concepts: democracy, free trade, international organizations.
Constructivism:
- Highlights the role of ideas, beliefs, and identities in shaping international relations.
- Argues that social constructs influence the behavior of states.
- Key concepts: norms, identity, social interactions.

Sovereign States: Primary actors with authority over a defined territory and population.
International Organizations: Entities like the UN, NATO, and WTO that facilitate cooperation and governance.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Advocate for various causes and influence policy (e.g., Amnesty International).
Multinational Corporations: Businesses that operate across borders and can affect international policy and economics.

War and Conflict:
- Causes: territorial disputes, resource scarcity, ideological differences.
- Forms: conventional warfare, civil wars, terrorism.
Human Rights:
- Global norms and treaties aimed at protecting individual rights.
- Challenges: state sovereignty vs. international intervention.
Globalization:
- Economic, cultural, and technological interconnectedness.
- Impact on state sovereignty and local cultures.
Climate Change:
- Increasing recognition of environmental issues in international policy.
- International agreements like the Paris Accord.
Trade and Economics:
- Trade agreements and tariffs influence international relations.
- Economic sanctions as tools of foreign policy.

Diplomacy: Negotiation and dialogue between states.
Military Action: Use of force to achieve foreign policy goals.
Economic Sanctions: Restrictions to influence state behavior.
Soft Power: Persuasion through culture, values, and policies rather than coercion.

International politics involves interactions among sovereign states and non-state actors, shaping global relations.

Realism:
- Centres on state interests and power as primary motivators.
- Views states as rational actors within an anarchic global system.
- Important concepts include national interest, power balance, and security dilemma.
Liberalism:
- Stresses the importance of cooperation and interdependence among states.
- Supports international institutions and norms to foster peace.
- Key concepts include democracy, free trade, and international organizations.
Constructivism:
- Focuses on the influence of ideas, beliefs, and identities on international dynamics.
- Suggests that social constructs shape state behavior and relationships.
- Important concepts include norms, identity, and social interactions.

Sovereign States: Central actors with jurisdiction over specific territories and populations.
International Organizations: Bodies like the UN, NATO, and WTO that promote cooperation and governance.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Advocacy groups (e.g., Amnesty International) that influence policy and public awareness.
Multinational Corporations: Enterprises that operate internationally, impacting economic policies and relations.

War and Conflict:
- Origins stem from territorial disputes, resource scarcities, and ideological divides.
- Manifestations include conventional warfare, civil wars, and terrorism.
Human Rights:
- International norms and treaties aim to safeguard individual liberties.
- Encounter challenges balancing state sovereignty and the need for global intervention.
Globalization:
- Represents economic, cultural, and technological interconnections across borders.
- Affects state sovereignty and the preservation of local cultures.
Climate Change:
- Environmental issues are increasingly prioritized in international agendas.
- Includes global agreements like the Paris Accord to address climate challenges.
Trade and Economics:
- Trade agreements and tariffs can significantly shape international relationships.
- Economic sanctions serve as tools to influence foreign state behaviors.

Bipolarity: Characterized by two dominant powers, such as the USA and USSR during the Cold War.
Multipolarity: Involves multiple states with substantial influence over global politics.
Unipolarity: Features a single superpower, exemplified by the USA after the Cold War.

Diplomacy: Involves negotiation and communication among states to resolve issues.
Military Action: The use of force to achieve strategic foreign policy objectives.
Economic Sanctions: Imposed restrictions intended to alter a state’s behavior.
Soft Power: Influencing other nations through culture, values, and policies rather than coercive measures.

Growing prominence of non-state actors in shaping international relations.
Increased populism and nationalism influencing global governance and cooperation.
Rise of digital diplomacy and cybersecurity threats affecting political dynamics globally.