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Realism emerged as a dominant perspective in international relations primarily because of what historical event?

  • The global economic boom of the 1930s.
  • The rise of international law and organizations in the early 20th century.
  • The successful implementation of the Treaty of Versailles.
  • The perceived failure of liberal approaches to prevent another world war. (correct)

Which period is most closely associated with the rise of realism as a framework for analyzing international relations?

  • The age of exploration.
  • The interwar period between World War I and World War II.
  • The Cold War era. (correct)
  • The post-Cold War era.

Which of the following is NOT typically considered a core type of realism?

  • Classical Realism
  • Democratic Realism (correct)
  • Neoclassical Realism
  • Neorealism

Which of the following best summarizes a core tenet of liberalism in international relations?

<p>Cooperation and peace can be fostered through democratic institutions and international law. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which scholar is closely associated with the early critique of liberalism and the development of realist thought in international relations?

<p>E.H. Carr (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which set of concepts is most closely associated with the core tenets of realism in international relations?

<p>Power politics, national security, aggression, and conflict. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a central assumption of realism regarding human nature and its impact on international politics?

<p>Human nature is fundamentally selfish, power-seeking, and prone to conflict. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'situational ethics' refer to in the context of international relations, from a realist perspective?

<p>The view that leaders must prioritize national security and interests, even if it means compromising ethical principles. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to realism, what is the primary responsibility of leaders to their citizens?

<p>To ensure the nation's survival, security, and power, even at the expense of moral idealism. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Machiavellian logic' suggest about leadership in international relations, according to realist thought?

<p>Leaders may need to employ deception, ruthlessness, or even unethical tactics if it benefits their country. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might a realist interpret Russia's invasion of Ukraine?

<p>As a necessary action, from Putin's perspective, to ensure Russia's security, even if it violates international norms. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best summarizes Morgenthau's view of human nature and its influence on state behavior?

<p>Humans are aggressive, selfish, and driven by a lust to dominate, which shapes the actions of states. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is 'Animus Dominandi' and how does it relate to realist thought?

<p>It is the relentless lust to dominate, which realists see as a fundamental aspect of human nature and state behavior. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which concepts from Weber and Mead does constructivism relate to?

<p>Verstehen and symbolic interactionism. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of constructivism as a theoretical approach to international relations?

<p>The ways in which ideas, norms, and social interactions shape global politics. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to constructivism, what is the relationship between material resources (e.g., money, military power) and their significance in international relations?

<p>Material resources are important, but their significance is determined by how they are used and the meanings attached to them. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which set of concepts is most closely associated with constructivism in international relations?

<p>Shared norms, values, mutual trust, and international community. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does constructivism differ from realism and liberalism in explaining international relations?

<p>Constructivism focuses on how shared ideas, norms, and identities shape state behavior, whereas realism emphasizes power and liberalism emphasizes cooperation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the constructivist view on the concept of 'anarchy' in the international system?

<p>Anarchy is a social construct, and its effects depend on the shared understandings and practices of states. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the concept of 'identity' influence state behavior, according to constructivist theory?

<p>Identity shapes a state's interests, preferences, and interactions with other actors in the international system. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of how norms can shape state behavior, according to constructivism?

<p>States may refrain from using certain weapons due to a widespread norm against their use, even if it is militarily advantageous. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do constructivists view the role of international organizations in shaping global politics?

<p>International organizations can socialize states into adopting new norms and identities, thereby shaping their behavior. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way does constructivism challenge the realist emphasis on material power as the primary driver of international relations?

<p>Constructivism asserts that the meaning and significance of material power are socially constructed and depend on shared ideas and norms. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of how constructivism can explain changes in international relations that other theories might overlook?

<p>The abolition of slavery and the emergence of human rights as a global norm. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does constructivism approach the study of security in international relations?

<p>Security is a social construct, and threats are defined by shared understandings and perceptions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of 'socialization' in constructivist theory?

<p>Socialization is the process by which states learn and internalize international norms and values. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to constructivism, how do actors develop their interests and preferences in international relations?

<p>Actors develop their interests and preferences through social interaction, learning, and the construction of shared meanings. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a criticism of constructivism as a theory of international relations?

<p>Constructivism may be difficult to apply empirically and may not provide clear predictions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does constructivism view the relationship between domestic politics and international relations?

<p>Domestic politics and international relations are mutually constitutive, meaning they shape and influence each other. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to constructivism, what role do elites and leaders play in shaping international relations?

<p>Elites and leaders play a key role in constructing and disseminating ideas, norms, and identities that shape international relations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does constructivism understand the concept of 'national interest'?

<p>National interest is socially constructed and shaped by a state's identity, values, and norms. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of how constructivism might analyze the relationship between the United States and China?

<p>By analyzing how shared ideas, norms, and identities shape their interactions and perceptions of each other. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following theoretical frameworks is most likely to emphasize the importance of discourse and language in shaping international relations?

<p>Constructivism. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of 'trust' in international relations from a constructivist perspective?

<p>Trust is a social construct that can facilitate cooperation and reduce conflict among states. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might a constructivist explain the end of the Cold War?

<p>Due to the changing ideas, norms, and identities of leaders and citizens in both the East and West. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key difference between neorealism and constructivism?

<p>Neorealism views the international system as anarchic and unchanging, while constructivism sees it as socially constructed and subject to change. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best embodies a constructivist approach to studying international security?

<p>Investigating how perceptions of threat are socially constructed and how they influence security policies. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does constructivism view the concept of 'state sovereignty' in international relations?

<p>State sovereignty is a social construct that is constantly being negotiated and redefined. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What critical factor led to the rise of realism as a prominent theory in international relations after World War II?

<p>The perceived inability of liberal approaches to prevent another major global conflict. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which key event is most closely associated with the emergence and application of realism in international relations?

<p>The Cold War (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a primary element within the main tenets of liberalism?

<p>Emphasis on state sovereignty and non-intervention. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which scholar is recognized for their early critique of liberal internationalism and their role in shaping realist thought?

<p>E.H. Carr (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which set of concepts aligns most directly with the foundational principles of realism in international relations?

<p>Power politics, national security, and the inevitability of conflict (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to realist thought, what is a fundamental characteristic of the international system?

<p>Anarchy, where no overarching authority governs states. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of international relations, what does 'situational ethics' emphasize from a realist perspective?

<p>The necessity for leaders to prioritize national interests over ethical considerations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which action would a leader most likely prioritize to uphold their responsibilities, according to realism?

<p>Strengthening the nation's military to ensure its security. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Machiavellian logic' imply for leaders in international politics from a realist viewpoint?

<p>Leaders may need to employ deception and ruthlessness if it benefits their country. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How would a realist likely view a country increasing its military spending while advocating for global peace?

<p>As a necessary measure to ensure its security in an anarchic world. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Morgenthau's perspective on how a nation should engage with differing ideologies?

<p>Nations should respect the diversity of ideologies and avoid imposing their views. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the concept of Animus Dominandi relate to realist thought in international relations?

<p>It underscores the inherent human desire for domination that shapes state behavior. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

With which theoretical tradition is constructivism LEAST compatible?

<p>Realism. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does constructivism assert about the nature of international politics?

<p>It is socially constructed through shared ideas, norms, and identities. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does constructivism regard the significance of material resources like money or military power?

<p>Their significance is determined by the shared understandings and meanings attributed to them. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which set of concepts is most closely associated with constructivism in the study of international relations?

<p>Shared norms, values, knowledge and mutual trust. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might constructivism explain the evolving relationship between two nations that were once adversaries?

<p>Transformation in their perceptions, identities, and shared understandings. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do international organizations play in shaping global politics, according to constructivists:

<p>They can socialize states into new norms and shape their identities and behaviors. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does constructivism view the sources of security threats in international relations?

<p>Security threats are socially constructed and depend on how actors perceive each other. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which concept from Weber and Mead relates to constructivism?

<p>Verhesten and symbolic interactionism (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a basic point of liberalism?

<p>International Law (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the main ideas of liberalism?

<p>Freedom and self-determination for all (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to realism, what characterizes the international system?

<p>Anarchy, meaning there is no overarching power to control states. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Assuming a realist perspective, what primarily motivates states in their interactions with one another?

<p>The pursuit of power and security in a competitive environment. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the concept of 'situational ethics' guide decision-making for leaders from a realist perspective?

<p>It allows leaders to prioritize national interests, even at the expense of ethical concerns. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does constructivism emphasize regarding the role of ideas and norms in shaping international relations?

<p>Ideas and norms play a crucial role in shaping state identities, interests, and actions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In constructivist thought, how do shared norms among states contribute to the international environment?

<p>Shared norms can foster trust, cooperation, and a sense of international community. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to constructivism, what is the relationship between state identity and international politics?

<p>State identity shapes a state's interests, behavior, and interactions on the global stage. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does constructivism challenge the realist understanding of anarchy in the international system?

<p>By asserting that anarchy is not necessarily a self-help system but can be shaped by norms and identities. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the realist concept of 'Animus Dominandi' suggest about human nature?

<p>Humans have an relentless lust to dominate. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In comparing realism and constructivism, what is a central point of disagreement regarding state behavior?

<p>Whether state behavior is primarily driven by material forces or by ideas and norms. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How might a constructivist analyze the role of non-state actors, such as NGOs, in international relations?

<p>As potential norm entrepreneurs that can shape state behavior and international norms. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which concept is most closely associated with the idea that leaders might need to deceive or act ruthlessly for their country?

<p>Machiavellian logic. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a type of Realism.

<p>Modern Realism. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to realism, what is the primary goal of each state in the international system?

<p>To maximize its own power and ensure its survival and security. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does realism explain the formation of international alliances?

<p>Alliances are temporary arrangements driven by states' self-interest and power considerations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement aligns with a realist interpretation of international cooperation?

<p>Cooperation happens when states perceive it to be in their own self-interest, but is always fragile. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to realism, how do states typically respond to an increase in another state's military capabilities?

<p>By increasing their own military capabilities to maintain the balance of power. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of morality in foreign policy decision-making from a realist perspective?

<p>Morality is secondary to the pursuit of national interests and security. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions best demonstrates 'Machiavellian logic' in international relations?

<p>A country engaging in secret negotiations to secure an advantage over its rivals. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Morgenthau, what fundamentally motivates states in the international system?

<p>The drive to accumulate and maintain power. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of neoclassical realism in international relations?

<p>The role of domestic factors, such as public opinion and state leadership, in mediating the impact of the international system on state behavior. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does constructivism view the concept of national interest?

<p>As a socially constructed and evolving concept shaped by norms, values, and identities. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes constructivism from realism and liberalism concerning international relations?

<p>Constructivism emphasizes the social construction of reality, while realism and liberalism assume objective realities. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to constructivism, how do shared ideas and norms affect international politics?

<p>They can shape states' identities, interests, and behaviors. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of how constructivism explains change in international relations?

<p>Evolutions in international norms regarding human rights. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does constructivism view the role of international institutions?

<p>International institutions are influential in shaping state behavior by socializing them into new norms and practices. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do actors develop their interests and preferences, according to constructivism?

<p>Through social interaction and the construction of shared meanings. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is 'Verstehen' in the context of constructivist theory, drawing from Max Weber's sociology?

<p>The interpretative understanding of the meanings and motives behind actors' actions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does constructivism understand the concept of power in international relations?

<p>Power includes not only material resources but also the ability to shape ideas, norms, and beliefs. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what prompted the emergence of realism in international relations?

<p>The perceived failure of liberalism to prevent another world war. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the information provided , what concept aligns best with the core beliefs of realism?

<p>National Security (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What describes a basic assumption of realism about the global order ?

<p>An anarchic domain where states pursue their own interests (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do realists view efforts from one country in imposing ideologies on other nations?

<p>Generally futile because there's no single universal ideology. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Why was realism created?

Realism was created as a response to the perceived failure of liberalism to prevent World War II.

When did realism start?

Realism started after World War II and was used to analyze the Cold War.

3 types of realism

Classical realism, neorealism/structural realism, neoclassical realism.

Main ideas of liberalism

Freedom and self-determination for all. Democratic institutions will foster peace; democracies are less likely to go to war, with voting and checks and balances. Humans are rational actors, capable of coordination and progress. States can act together. This approach was not successful.

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Who started realism?

Carr, a scholar, criticized liberalism as naive and utopian. IR is based on a conflict for power rather than a cooperative desire for peace.

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Realism: Basic Points

Power politics, national security, aggression, conflict, war.

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Liberalism: Basic Points

International law, international organizations, interdependence, cooperation, peace.

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Realism

Pessimistic view of human nature, conflict, self-interest, power, selfish, power-hungry, evil. States try to gain power and security. The international system is anarchic, with no greater power to control the state. Conflict cannot be improved by ideas, institutions, and values.

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Situational ethics

Leaders must make decisions based on practical circumstances rather than moral and ethical principles. National security comes before ethical concerns. Prioritize citizens' security and well-being over universal moral considerations. Decisions are based on outcomes, not moral intentions.

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Leaders' responsibility to their citizens

Leaders are responsible for the citizens entrusted in their care, which (according to realism) means prioritizing their nation's survival and power over moral idealism.

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Machiavellian logic

Leaders may need to lie, deceive, or act ruthlessly if it benefits their country.

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Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Putin may see the invasion of Ukraine as necessary for Russia's security, even though it violates international law. Situational ethics applies to what is 'right' for the country, depending on national interests, not universal moral standards.

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Morgenthau

Human nature is aggressive, selfish, seeking to dominate others. Self-interest and the quest for power drive the actions of states. No single nation can impose its ideology on other nations as universally valid.

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Animus Dominandi

Relentless lust to dominate

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constructivism relates to what concept by weber and Mead

verhesten and symbolic interactionism

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constructivism

Ideas and concepts create and shape collective institutions and social political practices. There is nothing 'natural' or 'inevitable' about the global order or politics. Constructivism is a social theory; it does not seek to explain how the world works but why it changes. Ideas have consequences, more important than physical manifestations of power. Although money, resources, and military power are all important, what matters most is how they are used and what they mean.

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basics of constructivism

Shared norms, values, and knowledge, mutual trust, no reason to fear the worst, international community, security.

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Study Notes

  • Flashcards on international relations for SOCI 263 Midterm 2

Realism

  • Emerged as a response to liberalism's perceived failure to prevent World War II.
  • Became prominent after World War II and was applied to analyze the Cold War.
  • Characterized by power politics, national security concerns, aggression, conflict, and war.
  • Three types include classical realism, neorealism/structural realism, and neoclassical realism.
  • Asserts a pessimistic view of human nature marked by conflict, self-interest, power seeking, and selfishness.
  • States prioritize gaining power and ensuring their security due to the anarchic nature of the international system.
  • Views the international system as prone to conflict, which cannot be resolved through ideas, institutions, or shared values.
  • Initiated by Carr, who criticized liberalism as naive and utopian, arguing international relations are based on power struggles, not cooperation for peace.

Liberalism

  • Centers on freedom and self-determination for all peoples.
  • Proposes that democratic institutions promote peace, as democracies are less likely to engage in war due to voting and checks and balances.
  • Based on the idea that humans are rational and capable of coordination and progress, enabling states to act together.
  • Characterized by international law, international organizations, interdependence, cooperation, and peace.

Situational Ethics

  • Leaders base decisions on practical circumstances rather than fixed moral or ethical principles.
  • National security and interests take precedence over ethical concerns in global politics.
  • Prioritizes the security and well-being of a nation's citizens above universal moral considerations.
  • Decisions are based on outcomes rather than moral intentions.
  • Illustrated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, where Putin may view the action as necessary for Russia's security, despite violating international law.

Leaders' Responsibility

  • Leaders must prioritize their nation's survival and power over moral idealism.
  • Leaders are entrusted with and responsible for the citizens in their care.

Machiavellian Logic

  • Leaders may need to lie, deceive, or act ruthlessly if doing so benefits their country.

Morgenthau's Perspective

  • Human nature is inherently aggressive, selfish, and seeks to dominate others.
  • Self-interest and the quest for power drive the actions of states.
  • Situational ethics are crucial.
  • No single nation can impose its ideology on other nations as universally valid.

Animus Dominandi

  • Refers to a relentless lust to dominate.

Constructivism

  • Ideas and concepts shape collective institutions and socio-political practices.
  • Asserts that there is nothing "natural" or "inevitable" about the global order or politics.
  • As a social theory, aims to explain why the world changes rather than how it works.
  • Shared norms, values, knowledge, and mutual trust are fundamental aspects.
  • Posits that ideas have consequences, often more significant than physical power.
  • While resources and military strength hold importance, their usage and meaning are more critical.
  • Relates to the concepts of Verhesten (understanding) and symbolic interactionism.

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