Intro to International Relations - Intro to IR January 17 Who is the secretary general of the UN January 22 Missed class January 24 Theories of World

Intro to IR January 17 Who is the secretary general of the UN? January 22 Missed class January 24 Theories of World Politics (Chapter 2) Paradigm: - a way of looking at a particular subject - structures our inquiry and interpretation by tables or outlines Theory: - hypotheses relating variables - describe, explain and predict - falsifiable and stand the test of time - more complex than a paradigm Constructivism - paradigm based on agreement Geopolitics - geography, state power Current history approach - events rather than theoretical explanations Liberalism - reason and ethics can overcome anarchy - order through cooperation - international institutions key - associated with “idealism” Aspects: - unity rather than national loyalties - the individual/human rights/civil liberties - ideas and education promote world peace - free international trade - avoid secret diplomacy - terminate interlocking alliances - self-determination of nationalities - promote democracy - begins with President Wilson and his 14 points Criticisms - most leaders do not accept it

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- institutions still state-dominated - states do what no one else does - people are no better than they ever were Realism: - Anarchy characterizes international system - World politics is a struggle for power - Each state pursues its national interest - “Realpolitik”—prepare for war to preserve peace Aspects - People are selfish, ethically flawed, compete for advantage, lust for power - International politics is a struggle for power - The prime obligation of the state is promoting the national interest—“raison d’etat” - System requires states to acquire power - Military power most important - Do not trust allies - Resist efforts to control state - Use flexible alliances to maintain a balance of power Criticisms - did not explain cooperation after WWI - many propositions not easily testable - disregards ethical principles - focuses on military might at economic and social expense of states Neorealism: - Accepts much of realism - Behavior determined by relative power - States: same objectives, different capacities - Capacities determine system structure - Global level of analysis - Security as opposed to Power Neoliberalism: - Developed by critics of realism/neorealism - Focuses on IGOs and other non-state actors - Examines cooperation (has to be focused, institutions) - De-emphasize conflict - Points to regional integration, especially EU Feminist Critique: - Women excluded from power in world politics - Male policymakers downplay injustices to women - Sexism is a pillar of war system - Realism inattentive to human rights - Focus on increasing international cooperation

Interdependence: - Complex interdependence: growing ties among transnational actors increases both vulnerability and sensitivity - Globalization: o Integration and growing interdependence of states through increasing contact and trade o Creates a global culture of non-state actors (example: money traders) o Decreases the ability of states to control people and events International Regimes: -