Unit 4 AOS 1

Question 1

Define realism

Answer 1

Realism involves states (and other global actors) prioritizing their specific interests and needs over those of the global community

Question 2

Define cosmopolitanism

Answer 2

Cosmopolitanism reflects a desire among global actors to cooperate to reach common goals and outcomes to meet challenges that are presented to the global community

Question 3

Define ethics

Answer 3

This seeks to address questions of morality and extends to global politics, as global actors are guided by different moral frameworks/positions. These may influence the actions of intergovernmental agencies and the creation and application of international laws

Question 4

Define justice

Answer 4

Refers to the concept of moral rightness based on ethics, law, fairness and equity that, importantly, also seeks punishment and/or compensation when these ethics are breached. Extends to global politics through international systems of justice, such as the International Criminal Court of Justice, which seek to uphold international law and deter future violations

Question 5

Define international law

Answer 5

Traditionally only relating to states, international law is a body of rules established by custom or written legal agreements that are accepted as binding upon the international community. Customary international law applies to all global actors. Written legal agreements, such as treaties, are only binding to thos who consent to it through explicit ratification. Some international laws may apply to only states, such as the UN Convention against Torture, while other may apply directly to citizens, such as war crimes.