Unit 4 AOS 1 (Ethical Issues): Key Terms

Question 1

Realism

Answer 1

Involves states (and other global actors) prioritizing their specific interest and needs over those of the global community

Question 2

Cosmopolitanism

Answer 2

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

Justice

Answer 3

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 ICC and ICJ, which seek to uphold international law and deter future violation

Question 4

Ethics

Answer 4

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 5

International Law

Answer 5

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 (eg. treaties) are only binding to those who consent to them through explicit ratification. Some international laws may apply only to states, such as the UN Convention against Torture, while others may apply directly to citizens, such as war crimes