Quiz

International System and Theories

• Kenneth N. Waltz identifies the ordering principle of the international system as anarchy, where no central authority governs the actions of states.
• The fundamental feature of politics according to the power-centrism assumption is the centrality of power in determining political relationships and outcomes.
• The core assumption of neorealism (or structural realism) is that the international system's structure influences state behavior more than individual state characteristics.
• The groupism assumption posits that the most important human group is the state, which acts as the primary entity in international relations.

Liberalism and State Behavior

• The most important principle of liberalism in international relations is mutual cooperation among states to achieve common interests and benefits.
• According to the power-centrism assumption, the core assumption of egoism is that actors are motivated by their self-interests and the desire to maximize power.
• Realist perspectives emphasize the role of power and self-interest in shaping state behavior in world politics, arguing that conflict is an inevitable outcome of the anarchic system.
• The international system is characterized by self-help, where states prioritize their survival and security due to the lack of a higher authority.
• Realist theories assert that the main driving force behind state actions is the pursuit of power, shaped by national interests.
• Realists view state behavior as competitive, with states acting primarily in pursuit of their own interests and security.

Dominance of Theories

• Realism is recognized as the most dominant and influential theory in the study of International Relations.
• A key similarity between Marxism and most varieties of feminism is the focus on the structures of power and inequality in society.

Marxism and Material Conditions

• Marxism posits that human behavior and relations are determined by material conditions, including economic structures and resources.
• The representation of women in international relations is often limited, as traditional theories typically marginalize their roles.
• A key aspect of international relations from a Marxist perspective is the analysis of class struggles and exploitation as central to understanding global dynamics.
• Historical materialism in Marxism refers to the methodology of analyzing societal developments through the lens of economic factors and class relations.
• The relationship between material conditions and human actions is emphasized, suggesting that economic factors shape social behavior and political relations.

Feminist Perspectives

• From a feminist viewpoint, understanding international relations entails examining how gender influences power dynamics and state behavior.
• Liberal international relations theory posits that cooperation, trade, and international institutions primarily drive state behavior.
• Liberalism views people as rational individuals capable of pursuing collective goals through cooperation rather than conflict.

Constructivism and Social Realities

• Constructivism in international relations focuses on the social constructs and identities that shape state behavior and international norms.
• According to constructivist theories, actors behave based on their social context, identities, and the norms of the international system.
• Marxist and feminist approaches critique realism and liberalism for neglecting issues of power inequality and gender dynamics.
• A key principle of liberalism is the recognition of international institutions and cooperation as essential to maintaining peace and stability in international relations.