One world, rival theories - Jack Snyder Flashcards
What are examples of events that created debate in IR?
The Iraq War, the 1999 Kosovo crisis, the Gulf war, Gender and terrorism.
How does realism support peace?
It can be used to generate peace when there is a balance of power disincentivising states to attack each other.
How did 9/11 impact realism?
The war between Al Qaeda and the US was difficult to explain from a realist perspective as it was not a war between two nation states. This was countered by saying that the war on terror has primarily been fought against Iraq and Afghanistan.
Why do liberalists believe that democratic countries will not attack each other?
This is because they have an accountability to the people.
What do liberalists claim realism does not account for?
The progress of relations between nations.
What is the closest thing to an ironclad law in IR?
Democratic institutions never go to war against each other.
What do Liberalists believe about elected governments?
They believe that they are the only form of elected government.
What are democratic regimes prone to doing?
They are prone to launch messianic struggle against authoritarian regimes - the cold war. Countries transitioning to democracy are also more likely to go international and civil war, especially ones with nascent political institutions.
How do constructivists believe foreign policy should be construed?
They should be constructed in line with ethical and legal standards .
When did constructivism gain more relevance?
Post 9/11.
What organisations do constructivists study?
They study transnational activist networks. These are organisations that humiliate violations of moral or legal authority.
What are primary motivations and actors in constructivism?
Ideology, identities and persuasion are primary motivators and important actors include individuals, groups and transnational networks.
What actor do constructivists believe have less importance?
Nation states. They do not agree with the idea of a national interest.
How can acts influence each other in constructivism?
Through persuasion individuals and groups can grow in power if they can convince others to follow their ideals.
