International Relation Key Terms

anarchy

A situation in international relations where there is no overarching authority to enforce rules or provide security, leading to a self-help system among states.

Anthropocene

A proposed geological epoch marking the impact of human activity on the Earth's geology and ecosystems, characterized by significant changes in climate, biodiversity, and land use.

balance of power

The distribution of power among nations to prevent any one entity from becoming too dominant, often leading to alliances and counterbalancing behavior.

behaviouralism

A theoretical approach in political science that emphasizes the study of observable behaviors of individuals and groups, using empirical methods to analyze political actions and trends.

Bretton Woods

The system of international economic management, setting the rules for commercial exchange between the world’s major industrial states. 

realism

A major theoretical perspective in international relations that emphasizes the role of the state, national interest, and power, often viewing international politics as a struggle for power among self-interested states.

liberalism

A political theory that emphasizes individual freedoms, open markets, and democratic governance, advocating for international cooperation and institutions to promote peace.

Foreign Policy

The strategies and decisions made by a government in relation to its interactions with other countries, aimed at achieving national objectives.

Rational Actor Model

Individuals and states are rational decision-makers who systematically evaluate options to maximize utility or achieve goal.

Bureaucracy

A formal, rule-based system of organization used to manage large institutions like governments and corporations, characterized by a hierarchical structure, specialized roles, and strict procedural routines.

Game Theory

The strategic decision-making, analyzing how rational individuals, firms, or nations achieve optimal outcomes in competitive or cooperative situations where choices are interdependent

Communitarianism

A normative doctrine that focuses on political communities, especially nation-states, which are seen as fundamental agents and referents in world politics. According to this position, states’ interests come before those of individuals or that of humanity in general.

NATO

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization; an intergovernmental military alliance

ASEAN

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations

Cosmopolitanism

A normative doctrine that focuses on individual human beings and the whole of humanity, seen as fundamental agents and referents in world politics, whose needs should come before the interests of states.

Dependency theory

the idea that global poverty stems from a capitalist system where "periphery" states (developing nations) are exploited by "core" states (wealthy, industrialized nations). Resources flow from poor to rich countries, reinforcing underdevelopment and limiting peripheral autonomy.

statecraft

Statecraft is the art of conducting public affairs.