POLI 283: World Politics Summary PDF

Summary of PLSC 283 V Topic 1: Introducing World Politics Overview & Objectives ​ ​ Introduces the study of World Politics & International Relations (IR). ​ ​ Covers key concepts and historical turning points that shape global affairs. ​ ​ Explores the interconne...

Summary of PLSC 283 V Topic 1: Introducing World Politics Overview & Objectives ​ ​ Introduces the study of World Politics & International Relations (IR). ​ ​ Covers key concepts and historical turning points that shape global affairs. ​ ​ Explores the interconnection between local and global issues. Key Concepts in World Politics ​ ​ World Politics & You: ​ ​ The local and global are deeply connected. ​ ​ The term “intermestic” refers to how domestic and international affairs intersect. ​ ​ The Study of World Politics: ​ ​ A subfield of Political Science, relatively young and multidisciplinary. ​ ​ Covers areas like international law, foreign policy, security, global economy, ethics, migration, and human rights. Major Issues in World Politics ​ ​ Conflict, war, and peacekeeping ​ ​ National security challenges ​ ​ Humanitarian crises & human rights issues ​ ​ Economic downturns and financial crises ​ ​ Nationalism, isolationism & protectionism ​ ​ Immigration & forced migration ​ ​ International trade & investment ​ ​ Global health crises ​ ​ Climate change ​ ​ Nuclear proliferation ​ ​ Weak or failing states ​ ​ Transnational crime Core Concepts ​ ​ Power & Politics: ​ ​ Politics involves power relations at different levels. ​ ​ Power can be instrumental, structural, or ideological. ​ ​ Global Governance: ​ ​ The systems, institutions, and actors that shape international cooperation. ​ ​ Seeks to manage global problems through formal and informal mechanisms. Institutions & Globalization ​ ​ Institutions: Structures that guide, shape, and constrain behavior. ​ ​ Organizations: Institutions that have agency and take action. ​ ​ Transnational Issues: Problems affecting multiple states, requiring collective solutions. ​ ​ Multilateralism: Coordination among three or more states. ​ ​ Unilateralism & Bilateralism refer to one-state and two-state approaches. ​ ​ Polarity: The distribution of power in global politics (unipolar, bipolar, multipolar systems). ​ ​ Globalization: The increasing economic, cultural, and communication integration across borders. Key Actors in World Politics ​ 1.​ States: The primary actors in international relations. ​ ​ Some states act as hegemons (dominant global powers). ​ 2.​ Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs): Institutions made up of multiple states (e.g., UN, NATO). ​ 3.​ Non-State Actors: ​ ​ NGOs & Civil Society (e.g., Amnesty International). ​ ​ Market-based actors (e.g., multinational corporations). Major Historical Turning Points (“Critical Junctures”) ​ 1.​ Peace of Westphalia (1648) – Established state sovereignty. ​ 2.​ Industrial Revolution (18th-19th century) – Economic & technological transformation. ​ 3.​ European Colonialism (1493-1914) – Expansion of empires, global power shifts. ​ 4.​ World Wars (1914-18, 1939-45) – Redefined global order, led to institutions like the UN. ​ 5.​ Great Depression (1930s) – Economic collapse with worldwide effects. ​ 6.​ Cold War (Post-WWII-1990s) – U.S.-Soviet ideological and military rivalry. ​ 7.​ Decolonization (1960s) – Many former colonies gained independence. ​ 8.​ 9/11 Attacks (2001) – Shifted global security policies. ​ 9.​ 2007-08 Financial Crisis – Triggered a global recession. ​ 10.​ Arab Spring (2011) – Uprisings across the Middle East for democracy and reform. ​ 11.​ COVID-19 Pandemic (2020s) – Global crisis impacting economies, health systems, and governance. Conclusion This introduction to world politics highlights global interconnections, key issues, and power structures. It provides the foundation for understanding international relations, governance, and historical events shaping the modern world. Summary of POLI 283 V Topic 2: Levels of Analysis & Theories of World Politics Overview & Objectives This topic explores the different levels of analysis used in world politics and introduces key theories that explain global interactions. The three main objectives are: ​ 1.​ Understanding the levels-of-analysis framework. ​ 2.​ Defining what theory is and how it helps explain world politics. ​ 3.​ Introducing realism, liberalism, and constructivism as dominant theories. Levels of Analysis in World Politics Analysis in world politics involves breaking down complex events to understand their causes and effects. There are three main levels: 1. Individual-Level Analysis (“First Image”) ​ ​ Focuses on the role of individual leaders and decision-makers in shaping international events. ​ ​ Considers psychological, cognitive, and ideological factors that influence decision-making. ​ ​ Assumes leaders operate with bounded rationality—meaning their choices are limited by personal biases and available information. ​ ​ Example: Hitler’s ideology shaping WWII or Biden’s foreign policy choices. 2. State-Level Analysis (“Second Image”) ​ ​ Examines how internal state characteristics affect global actions. ​ ​ Includes government structure, economic power, military strength, bureaucracy, and political institutions. ​ ​ Example: China’s state-led economy influencing global trade or how democracies vs. autocracies handle diplomacy. 3. Systems-Level Analysis (“Third Image”) ​ ​ Takes a top-down approach, looking at how the international system’s structure influences state behavior. ​ ​ Examines power relationships, international organizations, economic systems, and global interdependence. ​ ​ Example: The Cold War as a bipolar system (U.S. vs. USSR) or the UN shaping international laws. What is Theory? ​ ​ A theory simplifies reality to help explain and predict events in world politics. ​ ​ Key functions of theories: ​ ​ Simplify complex issues. ​ ​ Clarify cause-and-effect relationships. ​ ​ Describe & explain global patterns. ​ ​ Predict future trends. Major Theories of World Politics 1. Realism (Power & Self-Interest) ​ ​ Views world politics as a struggle for power where states act in their own self-interest. ​ ​ Key assumptions: ​ ​ States are the main actors (no global government). ​ ​ The world operates in anarchy (no authority above states). ​ ​ States seek security & power, leading to conflicts (e.g., arms races, military alliances). ​ ​ Security Dilemma: One state increasing security causes others to do the same, leading to tensions. ​ ​ Example: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as a power move. 2. Liberalism (Cooperation & Institutions) ​ ​ Argues international cooperation is possible through institutions and interdependence. ​ ​ Key assumptions: ​ ​ States are central but not the only actors (NGOs, IGOs, businesses also matter). ​ ​ International organizations (e.g., UN, WTO) reduce anarchy by promoting diplomacy. ​ ​ Economic interdependence reduces conflict—countries that trade together are less likely to fight. ​ ​ Absolute gains matter more than relative gains (mutual benefit over power competition). ​ ​ Example: The EU promoting peace and economic growth in Europe. 3. Constructivism (Ideas & Social Structures) ​ ​ Focuses on the social and ideological nature of world politics. ​ ​ Key assumptions: ​ ​ The world is socially constructed, not just based on material power. ​ ​ Ideas, identities, and norms shape global behavior. ​ ​ Perceptions & legitimacy matter (e.g., democracy seen as more “legitimate” than dictatorship). ​ ​ Both state & non-state actors influence global norms (e.g., climate change activism). ​ ​ Example: The shift in global attitudes toward human rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and climate policy. Critical Theories in World Politics 1. Marxist & Neo-Marxist Theories (Economic Determinism) ​ ​ Focus on economic inequality and class struggle in world politics. ​ ​ Key ideas: ​ ​ Historical materialism: Examines how economic structures drive political change. ​ ​ Economic class matters more than the state—politics is shaped by capitalists vs. workers. ​ ​ Neo-Marxists emphasize global trade relations over just production. ​ ​ Example: Global wealth inequality & corporate influence on politics. 2. Dependency Theory (Global Economic Inequality) ​ ​ Focuses on the economic gap between developed (Global North) and developing (Global South) nations. ​ ​ Key ideas: ​ ​ The core (rich countries) exploits the periphery (poor countries) through unfair trade. ​ ​ Colonial history continues to shape economic dependence. ​ ​ Global South remains underdeveloped due to structural inequalities in the international system. ​ ​ Example: IMF/World Bank loans leading to economic dependency in Africa and Latin America. Conclusion This topic highlights the three levels of analysis in world politics and introduces major theories that explain global interactions. While realism sees international relations as a power struggle, liberalism emphasizes cooperation, and constructivism focuses on social structures. Critical theories like Marxism and Dependency Theory examine the role of economic inequality in shaping global politics. Summary of POLI 283 V Topic 3: Unilateralism, Multilateralism & International Institutions Overview This topic explores how states engage in global governance, focusing on unilateralism, multilateralism, international organizations (IGOs), the United Nations (UN), and international law. Key Concepts ​ 1.​ Unilateralism – A state acts alone, without consulting others (e.g., U.S. withdrawing from the Paris Agreement). ​ 2.​ Multilateralism – Coordination among three or more states to achieve shared goals (e.g., NATO, the UN). ​ 3.​ International Institutions – Structures that guide, constrain, and influence state behavior, including treaties, organizations, and norms. Why Do States Cooperate? ​ ​ Increased interdependence. ​ ​ Addressing transnational issues. ​ ​ Legitimizing actions in world affairs. ​ ​ Giving smaller states leverage in global politics. Inter-Governmental Organizations (IGOs) IGOs are formal organizations of three or more states with structures to support multilateralism. Examples of IGOs: ​ ​ United Nations (UN) – Global peace & security. ​ ​ Bretton Woods Institutions (IMF, World Bank) – Economic development. ​ ​ World Trade Organization (WTO) – Regulates trade. ​ ​ North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) – Military alliance. ​ ​ European Union (EU) – Regional economic and political union. ​ ​ African Union (AU), BRICS, OPEC – Various regional/global functions. Regional IGOs: ​ ​ Europe – EU, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). ​ ​ Africa – AU, ECOWAS, SADC, EAC. ​ ​ The Americas – Organization of American States (OAS), MERCOSUR. ​ ​ Asia – ASEAN, APEC, Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). ​ ​ Middle East – Arab League, Gulf Cooperation Council. The United Nations (UN) ​ ​ Founded: 1945, 193 member states. ​ ​ Purpose: Maintain global peace, security, development, and human rights. ​ ​ Functions: ​ ​ Global security system. ​ ​ Establishing international laws & principles. ​ ​ Forum for diplomatic debate. ​ ​ Sponsoring global development & humanitarian aid. The UN System: ​ 1.​ General Assembly – Central platform for global debate. ​ 2.​ Security Council – Maintains peace, includes 5 permanent members (P-5): U.S., UK, China, Russia, France. ​ 3.​ Economic & Social Council (ECOSOC) – Oversees development policies. ​ 4.​ Secretariat – Administers the UN, led by the Secretary-General. ​ 5.​ International Court of Justice (ICJ) – Settles legal disputes. UN Agencies & Programs: ​ ​ Specialized Agencies – WHO (health), UNESCO (education), FAO (food security). ​ ​ UN Funds & Programs – UNICEF (children’s rights), UNHCR (refugees), UNDP (development), UN Women (gender equality). Challenges Facing the UN ​ ​ Sovereignty conflicts – Nations resist external control. ​ ​ Competing political interests – Leads to gridlock and inaction. ​ ​ Funding shortages – Limits effectiveness. ​ ​ New global issues – Climate change, migration, cyber security. International Law ​ ​ Definition: Rules, principles, and customs that regulate state & non-state interactions. ​ ​ Debate: Some question if international law is truly enforceable. Characteristics of International Law ​ ​ Consent-based – States must agree to be bound by treaties. ​ ​ Anarchic environment – No central authority enforces laws. ​ ​ Facilitative, not controlling – More about cooperation than punishment. Sources of International Law ​ 1.​ Treaties – Formal agreements between states (e.g., Paris Climate Accord). ​ 2.​ Customary Law – Long-established global practices. ​ 3.​ Soft Law – Non-binding resolutions that shape norms. Conclusion ​ ​ Unilateralism vs. Multilateralism defines how states engage in world politics. ​ ​ IGOs & the UN play a key role in maintaining global order. ​ ​ International law is a key, but often debated, tool in global governance. ​ ​ Challenges like sovereignty, competing interests, and enforcement issues limit effectiveness. Summary of POLI 283 V Topic 4: The State, Globalization & Nationalism Overview This topic examines the modern state, state capacity, globalization, and nationalism. It explores: ​ 1.​ The concept of the state and its evolution. ​ 2.​ State capacity and failed states. ​ 3.​ Colonialism’s role in imposing the state system. ​ 4.​ The impact of globalization on state sovereignty. ​ 5.​ The rise and significance of nationalism. The State & The Modern State ​ ​ A state is a political community with sovereignty. ​ ​ The modern state is defined by: ​ ​ Universality (applies to all people in a defined territory). ​ ​ Sovereignty (self-governance without external interference). ​ ​ Core features: Territory, population, government. Why Do States Exist? Social Contract Theory (Hobbes, Locke, Kant) argues states exist to: ​ ​ Defend against external threats. ​ ​ Maintain internal order through law and policing. ​ ​ Tax and provide public goods (education, healthcare, infrastructure). ​ ​ Correct market failures and regulate the economy. State Capacity & Failed States ​ ​ State capacity: A state’s ability to perform its functions effectively. ​ ​ Weak states: Struggle with governance and security. ​ ​ Failed states: Cannot perform core functions (e.g., Somalia, Afghanistan). ​ ​ Causes of state failure: ​ ​ Colonial legacies (artificial borders, ethnic divisions). ​ ​ Political instability and conflict. ​ ​ Economic underdevelopment. ​ ​ Corruption and weak institutions. ​ ​ Lawlessness and lack of legitimacy. Fragile States Index measures state failure based on governance, security, and economic stability. The Birth of the Westphalian State & The Inter-State System ​ ​ Peace of Westphalia (1648) ended the Thirty Years’ War and established state sovereignty. ​ ​ This marked the beginning of the modern international system, where: ​ ​ States are recognized as sovereign. ​ ​ They operate based on mutual non-interference. ​ ​ This system still defines global politics today. Colonialism & The Imposition of the State ​ ​ Colonialism: When a state exerts direct control over another territory and society. ​ ​ European Colonialism (1493-1914) forcibly imposed the modern state system. ​ ​ Key features of colonialism: ​ 1.​ Extractive – Exploited local resources. ​ 2.​ Autocratic – Imposed undemocratic rule. ​ 3.​ Coercive – Enforced dominance through violence. ​ 4.​ Inequality – Created lasting economic and social divides. ​ 5.​ Imposed European institutions – Replaced local governance systems. ​ 6.​ Politicized identities – Created ethnic and racial divisions. The post-colonial world still struggles with the impacts of artificial borders and governance structures. Globalization & The Modern State ​ ​ Globalization: The increasing economic, political, and social integration of the world. ​ ​ Harvey (1989) describes it as time-space compression, where: ​ ​ Economic activities occur faster and across greater distances. ​ ​ Technological advances enhance connectivity. ​ ​ States lose some control over markets, trade, and finance. Characteristics of Modern Globalization ​ 1.​ Unprecedented speed – Integration is happening faster than ever. ​ 2.​ Technological advancements – AI, digital trade, instant communication. ​ 3.​ Economic liberalization – More free trade & open markets. ​ 4.​ Government policies – States regulate and adapt to globalization. Uneven Globalization ​ ​ The Global North benefits more than the Global South. ​ ​ Economic inequality grows as wealth and power remain concentrated in developed nations. Globalization & Non-State Actors ​ ​ Global Civil Society: International actors working outside governments (e.g., activists, NGOs). ​ ​ International NGOs (INGOs): Formal organizations (e.g., Amnesty International, Greenpeace). ​ ​ Transnational Movements: Less structured but politically driven (e.g., climate strikes, feminism). ​ ​ Multinational Corporations (MNCs): Private sector actors influencing global policies. Non-state actors challenge state sovereignty, shaping international agendas without being bound by borders. The Globalization Debate Benefits ✅ Reduces conflict – Economic interdependence makes war costly. ✅ Promotes democracy & human rights – International pressure for reforms. ✅ Boosts economic growth – Expands trade and investment. ✅ Encourages cultural exchange – Enhances understanding and cooperation. Problems ❌ Widens inequality – Benefits rich countries and corporations the most. ❌ Weakens national sovereignty – States lose control over policies. ❌ Undermines democracy – Economic power shifts to multinational corporations. ❌ Disempowers the working class – Labor outsourcing leads to job losses in developed nations. Nationalism ​ ​ Nation: A group of people sharing culture, history, and identity. ​ ​ Nationalism: The belief that the nation is the basis for political organization. ​ ​ Nation-State: A country where national and state boundaries align. Trends in Nationalism ​ ​ Many expected nationalism to decline, but it remains strong. ​ ​ Post-Cold War nationalism surged in many regions. ​ ​ COVID-19 fueled nationalism as countries focused on self-reliance. ​ ​ Bieber (2018) argues nationalism is reshaping modern politics. The Different Faces of Nationalism Positive Aspects ✅ Fosters political community – Strengthens social cohesion. ✅ Encourages democracy – When inclusive, nationalism empowers citizens. ✅ Discourages imperialism – Promotes national independence. ✅ Stimulates economic growth – Encourages self-sufficiency. Negative Aspects ❌ Can lead to conflict – Ethnic nationalism fuels wars. ❌ Encourages exclusion – Defines insiders vs. outsiders. ❌ Drives xenophobia & nativism – Promotes hostility toward immigrants. ❌ Justifies imperialism – Can be used to dominate weaker nations. Conclusion This topic highlights the role of the state, its historical development, and how globalization is reshaping its authority. Nationalism remains influential, shaping domestic politics, international relations, and global conflicts. While globalization brings benefits, it also creates economic and social inequalities that challenge states worldwide.