Comparative theories key words Flashcards
Realism definition
States are the most important actors on the global stage. Their primary goal is to protect their own national interests
Liberalism definition
States interests in global politics are linked and independent. States are best advanced when they work closely together, especially with non-state actors to achieve common goals
Non-state actors/Non-governmental organisation (NGO) definition
A non-governmental organisation that operates independently of any government, typically those whose job it is to address a social or political issue - such as OXFAM and Save the Children UK
Intergovernmental organisation (IGO) definition
Organisation composed of soveriegn states, established by a shared treaty, for example the UN, World Bank, EU
Security dilemma definition
The realist idea that as one state builds up its defenses, others will respond by building up theirs, thereby increasing tension between the two, potentially sparking conflict - seen with China’s activity in the South China Sea and the Israel-Palestine conflict
Anarchical society definition
Term first used by Hedley Bull in 1977. It is the idea that global politics is in a state of disorder because there is no higher authority than nation-states with the power to control global politics
Society of states definition
The liberal idea that global politics is a system in which states attempt to establish order by forming alliances,, creating international institutions and laws
Complex interdependence definition
The liberal idea that states and their fortunes are inextricably linked
Clash of civilisations definition
The phrase coined by Samuel P Huntington in 1993. Huntington argues that conflict in the 21st century is not political or economic, but cultural. Specifically fought between “civilisations” such as the “west” (North America, Western Europe and Australiasia), Islamic and Sinic (Chinese) worlds
End of history definition
In 1989, Francis Fukuyama wrote the “end of history”. In this he argued that the liberal democracies had won the ideological struggles of the 20th century had come to an end
Democratic peace theory definition
Believes that democracies are very reluctant to go to war with each other. The open nature of democracies makes surprise attacks or invasions unlikely and largely unpopular, therefore they will be avoided
Hegemon definition
A state which has clear, dominant influence or authority over other states, such as the US from 1991
Bi-polar definition
When two states share a roughly equal balance of power and influence over other states, such as the USA and USSR from 1945-1991
Multipolar definition
When power in the world is split between more than two states, such as during WW1 and WW2
