introduction to ir theory

Question 1

what is international relations?

Answer 1

the study of how countries “states” interact in the world

how the world operates, NOT how it should be

Question 2

what is the thucydides trap?

Answer 2

when one great power threatens to displace another, war is almost always the result

Question 3

what is a system?

Answer 3

a set of units working together as interconnecting mechanisms or networks

Question 4

what is polarity?

Answer 4

distribution of material capabilities across states

of poles = # of states where power is concentrated)

multipolar (pre-ww1): stable if actors internalize norms of cooperation & conflict
bipolar (cold war): disrupting behavior is immediately evident
unipolar (post-cold war): one state has more military power than all others

Question 5

what is a hegemony?

Answer 5

one state is able and willing to act in ways that benefit itself AND those it leads

Question 6

what is power?

Answer 6

ability to influence others and control outcomes

natural power → innate characteristics
tangible Power → cultivated material characteristics
intangible Power → cultivated ideational characteristics

Question 7

what are the 3 types of actors?

Answer 7

1. foreign policy elites
2. mass public
3. individuals

Question 8

what are the levels of analysis?

Answer 8

1. international system
2. state
3. individual