Final

Question 1

constructivism

Answer 1

A theory emphasizing that international politics is shaped by ideas, norms, identities, and social interactions. It argues that the international system is socially constructed, states’ interests are shaped by their identities, and norms guide behavior. Key figure: Alexander Wendt (“Anarchy is what states make of it”).

Question 2

solidarity

Answer 2

A principle emphasizing unity and cooperation among states or groups based on shared interests, values, or norms. It often manifests in collective action, mutual support, and the pursuit of common goals, such as addressing global challenges like climate change or human rights protection.

Question 3

international society

Answer 3

A concept from the English School of IR theory, referring to a group of states bound by shared norms, rules, and institutions that regulate their interactions. It emphasizes coexistence, diplomacy, and common values, such as sovereignty and the maintenance of order.

Question 4

gender

Answer 4

A lens for analyzing how gender identities and roles influence international relations, highlighting power dynamics, inequalities, and the impact of global politics on men and women differently. It challenges traditional IR by focusing on issues like security, conflict, and policymaking through a gendered perspective.

Question 5

poststructuralism

Answer 5

theory that critiques traditional IR approaches, focusing on how language, discourse, and power shape our understanding of international politics. It questions fixed identities, dominant narratives, and the assumptions underlying concepts like state, sovereignty, and security. Key thinkers include Michel Foucault and Jacques Derrida.

Question 6

power

Answer 6

The ability of a state or actor to influence others and achieve desired outcomes, often categorized as hard power (military and economic force) and soft power (cultural influence, diplomacy, and persuasion). It shapes interactions, conflicts, and cooperation in the international system.

Question 7

discourse

Answer 7

The use of language and communication to shape meanings, identities, and power relations in international politics. It highlights how narratives and framing influence perceptions, policies, and the construction of global issues like security, development, and human rights.

Question 8

normative theory

Answer 8

A branch of IR focused on ethical questions and the moral dimensions of international politics. It examines what ought to be done, addressing issues like justice, human rights, and the legitimacy of war, often guiding principles for global governance and policy-making.

Question 9

cosmopolitanism

Answer 9

A theory advocating for global citizenship and moral obligations that transcend national borders. It emphasizes universal human rights, global justice, and cooperation, promoting the idea that individuals, not just states, are key actors in international politics.

Question 10

consequentialism

Answer 10

An ethical theory that evaluates actions based on their outcomes. In international relations, it suggests that the morality of state actions should be judged by the results they produce, such as promoting peace, security, or economic welfare, rather than by the intentions behind them.

Question 11

social construction

Answer 11

The idea that international realities, such as state interests, norms, and identities, are created through social interactions, language, and shared beliefs. It emphasizes that these realities are not fixed or inherent but are shaped by human practices and interpretations.

Question 12

English school

Answer 12

A theoretical approach that emphasizes the importance of international society, where states are bound by shared norms, rules, and institutions. It blends elements of realism, liberalism, and constructivism, focusing on the coexistence and cooperation of states within a society of nations.

Question 13

pluralism

Answer 13

A perspective within the English School that emphasizes the diversity of states and their interests in the international system. It argues for the coexistence of different norms and values, focusing on peaceful coexistence and respecting sovereignty while recognizing differences among states.

Question 14

world society

Answer 14

A concept within the English School that refers to a global community of individuals, non-state actors, and institutions, beyond just states. It emphasizes shared norms, values, and the protection of human rights, advocating for global cooperation and responsibility for global issues.

Question 15

feminism

Answer 15

A theoretical approach that examines how gender shapes international relations, focusing on the roles and experiences of women and marginalized groups. It critiques traditional IR theories for ignoring gender dynamics and highlights issues like power, inequality, and the impact of global politics on women.

Question 16

post colonialism

Answer 16

A theoretical approach that examines the lasting impact of colonialism on global politics. It focuses on the power dynamics, inequalities, and identities shaped by colonial histories, critiquing Western dominance and advocating for the voices and experiences of formerly colonized states and peoples.

Question 17

knowledge

Answer 17

Refers to the ways in which understanding, beliefs, and information about international relations are constructed, interpreted, and used. It explores how knowledge influences power, shapes policy, and is influenced by dominant ideologies, with attention to who produces knowledge and whose perspectives are included or excluded.

Question 18

subjectivity

Answer 18

Refers to the idea that international relations are shaped by individual perspectives, interpretations, and experiences. It emphasizes that knowledge and power are influenced by personal and collective biases, identities, and values, challenging the notion of objective, neutral analyses in global politics.

Question 19

green theory

Answer 19

A theoretical approach that focuses on environmental issues, sustainability, and the relationship between international relations and the natural world. It critiques traditional IR theories for neglecting ecological concerns and advocates for global cooperation to address challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental justice.

Question 20

communitarianism

Answer 20

A perspective that emphasizes the importance of communities, cultural values, and local traditions in shaping international relations. It argues that global norms should respect the sovereignty and particularity of states and communities, and that individuals’ rights and duties are often defined within these local contexts, rather than by universal standards.

Question 21

deontology

Answer 21

An ethical theory that focuses on the morality of actions themselves, rather than their consequences. In international relations, it emphasizes duties, rights, and principles, arguing that certain actions (such as upholding human rights or avoiding war crimes) are morally obligatory, regardless of the outcomes they produce.