ch3 Theories of International Relations

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary terms related to the theories of international relations outlined in the lecture notes.

Theory

A set of propositions that helps people understand, describe, and explain events.

Realism

A school of thought in international relations that emphasizes state power, security, and the anarchic nature of the international system.

Liberalism

A theory that suggests human nature is basically good, and that states thrive in a world governed by morality, cooperation, and laws.

Marxism

A critical theory that asserts social, political, and economic phenomena should be analyzed as a whole, focusing on class struggle and material conditions.

Constructivism

A theory that emphasizes the social construction of reality, indicating that the actions and words of people shape society, which in turn influences their actions.

Feminist Theory

An analytical framework that examines how gender affects world politics and the ways social norms shape gender roles.

Sovereignty

The supreme authority of the state to make and enforce laws within its territory.

Anarchy

A state of disorder due to the absence of a central governing authority in the international system.

Balance of Power

A situation in international relations where power is distributed among states in a way that prevents any single entity from dominating.

Self-help

A principle where states prioritize their own security and interests in the absence of a central governing authority.

Social Constructivism

A theory that posits realities are constructed through social processes, influencing the interests and identities of actors in international relations.

Democratic Peace Thesis

The idea that democracies are less likely to go to war with one another.

Marx's Dictum

Philosophers have only interpreted the world; the point is to change it.

International Regimes

Sets of rules, norms, and practices that govern international practices and interactions among states.

Bipolarity

An international system structure where two states hold most of the power.

Neorealism

A variant of realism that focuses on the structure of the international system rather than human nature.

Ethic of Responsibility

A concept suggesting that morality should be sidelined in policymaking to ensure state survival.

Security Dilemma

A situation where one state's attempts to enhance its security leads to increased insecurity for others.

Hegemon

A state that dominates all others in the international system.