IB Global Politics HL Theories and key concepts

Peace and conflict

just war theory

post colonialism

idealism

galtungs conflict triangle

development

post-colonialism

idealism

dependency theory

constructivism

sovereignty

post-colonialism

realism

liberalism

relativism

idealism

human rights

post colonialism

realism

idealism

relativism

universalism

liberalism

constructivism

sovereignty

a states control within its borders

power

the ability to effect change and influence others within social structures

legitimacy

the accepted right to excersise power

interdependence

mutual reliance among states and organizations

human rights

rights inherent to all human beings

justice

associated with fairness and rights (essentially giving people what they deserve)

liberty

freedom and autonomy

equality

the idea that all people have the same human rights

development

increased sustained standard of living

globalization

the increasing interconnection in the world

inequality

unequal access to resources

sustainabilty

assumes that resources arent infinte

just war theory

when is it just to go to war

just ad bellum(right to go to war)

jus in belle (right to conduct war)

post-colonialism

Post-colonialism is the study of how former colonies are affected by colonial rule after gaining independence.

idealism

idealism means focusing on goals like peace, justice, and cooperation — believing that countries should work together based on shared values, not just self-interest

galtungs conflict triangle

1. Direct Violence

– This is the physical or visible part of conflict — like war, killing, abuse, or discrimination.
– It’s what we usually notice first.

2. Structural Violence

– This is invisible violence built into systems — like poverty, racism, inequality, or lack of access to education and healthcare.
– It’s caused by unfair political, economic, or social structures.

3. Cultural Violence

– This refers to beliefs, values, or ideologies that justify or normalize direct or structural violence — like sexism, nationalism, or religious superiority.
– It makes violence seem acceptable or “natural.”

constructivism

The world is shaped by ideas, beliefs, identities, and social interactions — not just by power or money.

Cultural relativism

A person’s beliefs, values, and practices should be understood based on their own culture — not judged by the standards of another culture.

dependency

Poor countries stay poor because they are dependent on rich countries that exploit them for resources, labor, and markets.

realism

international system is an anarchy

states are by nature selfish

relativism

There is no absolute truth — what is right or true depends on the individual, culture, or situation.

liberalism

States can work together

universalism

Certain values, rights, or principles apply to all people, everywhere, regardless of culture, religion, or background.