7. Liberalism Applied (Democratic Peace Theory)

Question 1

What is the phenomenon known as democratic peace (democratic peace theory)?

Answer 1

It is when modern, liberal, democratic countries do not go to war with one
another. In effect, a state of peace exists between contemporary
democracies

Question 2

What are the normative (ideational) explanations for peace between liberal democracies?

Answer 2

The belief in the universality of natural law—respect for human rights
* “Live and let-live mentality

Question 3

What are the institutional explanations for peace between liberal democracies?

Answer 3

The idea that politicians avoid war because it is unpopular according to their constituents

Question 4

What are the limitations and/or criticisms of the various explanations for peace between liberal democracies?

Answer 4

democracies do not always extend trust and respect to opponents. Further, they often wage war in conflict with the principles of natural war

Question 5

What are some of the criticisms of the Democratic Peace Theory?

Answer 5

Democracies are not inherently peaceful
* Democracies frequently go to war against non-democracies
* Arguments based on public constraint are logically inconsistent as
an aversion to war should apply equally to democracies and non-
democracies.
* Similarly, democratic norms of non-violent conflict resolution should
apply for both democratic opponents and non-democratic
opponents.