6 Comparative theories Flashcards
(C) Realism
A wide school of thought in international relations theory that believes that world politics will remain a field of conflict among actors pursuing power.
(C) Liberalism
A wide school of though in international relations theory that rejects power politics as the sole outcome of international relations and emphasises mutual benefits and co-operation
(C) International anarchy
A concept that the world system is leaderless: here is no universal sovereign or worldwide government.
(C) Security dilemma
A theory that any actions by a state intended to increase security - can lead to other states responding with similar measures, producing increased tensions that create conflict.
(C) Complex interdependence
Theory that states and their fortunes are inextricably tied together.
(C) Global governance
Movement towards political integration of transnational actors aimed at negotiating responses to problems that affect more than one state or region.
(C) Anarchical society and society of states
Theory that the states of the world can be members of a society despite the anarchical nature of international system.
(NC) Zero-sum game
In international relations, a zero-sum game is a situation in which the gain of one state will result in the equal loss of another state.
(NC) ‘Billiard ball’ model
A model of international relations favoured by realists which represents each state as a billiard ball with an external shell representing external sovereignty.
(NC) ‘Cobweb web’ model
A model of global politics, preferred by liberals, which includes the interconnectedness of states and non-state actors.
