1. theories of global politics

Question 1

realism

Answer 1

states are the most important abnd authorative factors of global politics, and their primary goal is to protect their own national interests. the world is anarchical and selfish with no single authority above states that is able to impose order.
(synoptic link key conservative thinkers Hobbes and Burke = realist views on human nature)

Question 2

Liberalism

Answer 2

states interest in global politics are linked and interdependent and best advanced through states co operating with each other and with intergovernmental organisations in order to achieve common political objectives. Democracy and human rights are seen as essential.

Question 3

security dilema

Answer 3

The idea that as one state builds up its defences, others will respond by building up theirs, therby increasing tensions between two states or even provoking conflict. This risks becoming a competative cycle of events

Question 4

important realist thinkers

Answer 4

• Kenneth Waltz, Theory or international politics (1979)
• Stephen Walt, The Origins of Alliances (1987)
• Hans Morgenthau, Politics Among Nations (1948)
• John Mearsheimer, The Tradgedy of Great Power Politics (2001)

Question 5

Anarchical world order in action
IRAQ WAR 2003 backstory
Example of Realism

Answer 5

• US and allies (incl UK) belived Iraq still owned WMD (weapons of mass destruction)
• They invaided Iraq March 2003 (TB G)
• US launched military action without clear UNSC resolution - their last resolution 1441 offered Iraq a final oppertunity to comply with disarmament obligations
• Russia and France didnt support plans - Iraq partially cooperating with R 1441
• Sydam Hussein executed 30/09/2006no WMD in IRAQ

Question 6

2003 Iraq war = example of Realism in FP because…

Answer 6

The US was prepared to ‘go at it alone’ wothout international support
- no UNSC approval

The war’s legality was highley questionable
- Chilcot Inquirey 2016 concluded IRAQ WAR = UNJUSTIFIED

The US and its allies were acting in what they percieved and argued was their national interest
- saw UNSC as a obstical carrying out action
- T Blair saw Iraq represented ‘a current and serious threat to Uk national interest”