Unit 3: Interdependence theory and classical IR approaches Flashcards
What are the main functions of theories in International Relations?
Theories explain decisions, classify development, problematize trends, serve as political acts, explain processes and outcomes, enhance understanding of international institutions, predict future developments, and address the democratic deficit in organizations like the EU.
Why is “pure” empirical knowledge considered impossible?
All observations are influenced by theoretical assumptions, meaning no observation is free of interpretation or bias.
How do theories aid in understanding integration?
Theories provide frameworks that clarify how integration occurs, the factors involved, and the outcomes achieved, enhancing our understanding of interconnectedness.
What is the normative role of theories in integration?
Theories can critique current conditions and suggest how the social world should be organized, aiming at promoting change.
What is the primary focus of integration theories?
Integration theories focus on how independent states or entities come together to form cohesive political or economic unions.
What does International Relations (IR) study?
IR studies relations among states and international politics in an anarchic global system, including the causes of war and conditions for peace.
What are IR’s main classical questions?
The classical questions focus on the causes of war and conditions that promote peace among nations.
What are the categories of integration theories?
Integration theories are divided into positivist approaches (e.g., realism, liberalism) and post-positivist approaches (e.g., constructivism, critical theory).
How does realism define state behavior?
Realism views states as power-seeking entities in an anarchic system, where power is determined by material capabilities, especially military assets.
What is neorealism’s contribution?
Neorealism emphasizes that states are unitary and rational actors who prioritize military considerations due to the anarchical nature of international politics.
How does neoliberalism differ from traditional liberalism?
Neoliberalism acknowledges multiple actors beyond states in IR, focusing on economics, domestic politics, and international organizations as key players, whereas traditional liberalism primarily emphasizes the role of states.
What does liberalism argue about state relations?
Liberalism suggests that factors like democracy, trade, and international organizations can reduce conflict among states.
What is the constructivist view in IR?
Constructivism argues that meanings and identities in international politics are socially constructed, influencing how states interact and perceive each other.
What does critical theory aim to reveal?
Critical theory seeks to expose underlying social arrangements and critiques political and social structures, often with a focus on capitalist relations.
What is federalism’s role in integration?
Federalism involves dividing power between central and regional governments, promoting the formation of a political community with centralized decision-making and control over violence.
What are the main tenets of functionalism?
Functionalism views integration as a positive process driven by human cooperation, emphasizing the role of technical solutions to shared problems.
How does transactionalism approach integration?
Transactionalism focuses on mutual linkages between societies, viewing these connections as means to reduce the likelihood of conflict and foster security communities.
What is the background of interdependence theory?
Developed by Keohane and Nye as a critique of realism, interdependence theory emphasizes the significance of economic and social ties in an interconnected world.
How does interdependence differ from traditional IR?
Interdependence theory argues that states are not the only actors in IR, highlighting the importance of transnational relations and the impact of economic and social connections on global politics.
What are the main arguments against realism?
Critics argue that realism overemphasizes military power and neglects the significance of economic, social, and ecological issues in international relations.
Is military power still relevant in contemporary IR?
While military power remains important, economic and ecological issues are increasingly significant, and military solutions are often costly and counterproductive.
What defines interdependence?
Interdependence involves mutual dependence with reciprocal effects between countries, characterized by significant costs and impacts rather than simple interconnectedness.
What are the forms of interdependence?
The forms of interdependence include economic, social, and political, each influencing state interactions and policies.
How does asymmetrical interdependence create power?
Asymmetrical interdependence allows one party to exert control over negotiations and outcomes, as differences in dependence levels can create leverage.
What is complex interdependence?
Complex interdependence refers to a situation where multiple channels of interaction exist among states, reducing the likelihood of military conflict and creating a web of interconnected issues.
What role does anarchy play in IR theory?
Anarchy in IR refers to the lack of a central authority, leading states to prioritize self-help and power dynamics in their interactions.
How does the security dilemma affect state behavior in IR?
The security dilemma occurs when states’ efforts to enhance their security lead to increased tensions and mistrust, potentially resulting in conflict.
What is neoliberalism’s stance on cooperation and interdependence?
Neoliberalism emphasizes the importance of cooperation among states and recognizes the role of international organizations in fostering interdependence.
