Definitions: U3 AOS 1

Question 1

Nation

Answer 1

A group of people claiming common bonds based on culture, language and history (CLH).

E.g. some nations have their own state such as the Japanese, whilst others want their own state such as the Tibetans or the 25.6 million Kurds of Iraq, Turkey and Iran (ITI)

Question 2

State

Answer 2

Traditionally the central actor in international relations. Possess a permanent population, defined territory and recognised sovereignty (PDR) from the UN.

E.g. states are not necessarily culturally homogenous

Question 3

Sovereignty

Answer 3

The legitimate or widely recognised ability to exercise effective control within recognised borders. The primary organising principle (POP) of global politics, which provides states with the authority to represent their territorial entity in the international community.

E.g. SS can be challenged internally (secessionist groups) or externally (one state invading another)

Question 4

Power (GA)

Answer 4

The ability of one global actor to influence the actions of another global actor, so that they do something they originally did not want to do. Power can be exercised in a range of types and forms.

E.g. In 2012, TNC Nokia strong-armed the Finnish government into lowering corporate income taxes.

Question 5

Global Governance

Answer 5

The evolving system of political co-ordination among states and intergovernmental organisations (S/IGOs) and private agencies, aiming to facilitate co-operation and manage relations between states.

E.g. Established in 1945, the UN is an IGG aiming to promote friendly relations amongst states

Question 6

Multilateralism

Answer 6

A system of coordinating relations between 3+ states, usually in pursuit of objectives in particular areas.

E.g. The creation of UNSCRs such as R 1973 is a multilateral process.

Question 7

Public Opinion

Answer 7

Sentiment shared by people, which is an important factor in influencing the foreign policy decisions (FPDs) of governments. PO has an increased influence and power due to transformations in communications and technology

E.g. Demonstrations against Australia’s treatment of asylum seekers in detention centres.

Question 8

Globalisation

Answer 8

The facilitation of rapid changes in communication and technology that results in the acceleration and intensification of exchanges in goods, services, labour and capital. This promotes global interdependence and has widespread impacts on social, political, economical and cultural (SPEC) life.

E.g. The TNC giant McDonalds has established restaurants in 119 countries worldwide, in what is known as ‘McDonalidisation’.