Introduction to I.O. studies -- Part 2: Jan 8

What is anarchy in international relations?

A condition where there is no higher authority to enforce rules or resolve conflicts between states. States must rely on self-help.

Which school of thought introduced the concept of anarchy?

The Realist School (Morgenthau, Carr, Waltz).

What is the Security Dilemma?

A situation where states build military capabilities for self-defense, leading to fear and arms races (e.g., State A arms itself → State B feels threatened → both become stronger but less secure).

What is the Balance of Power?

A situation where states form alliances to counter stronger states, maintaining equilibrium in the international system.

What are Relative Gains?

States monitor allies to ensure they don’t become too powerful, prioritizing self-interest over mutual benefit.

What is a Sphere of Influence?

A region where a powerful state dominates (e.g., Monroe Doctrine in Latin America).

What is Hegemony?

Dominance by one state in economy, military, and technology (e.g., the U.S. as the current hegemon).

What does Neo-Liberal Institutionalism argue?

States can cooperate despite anarchy through repeated successful interactions, focusing on absolute gains (mutual benefit).

What is the difference between Regimes and International Organizations (I.O.s)?

Regimes are issue-specific agreements (e.g., Nuclear Regime), while I.O.s are autonomous organizations with bureaucracies (e.g., UN, IMF).

What was the Concert of Europe?

A system of collective security among Great Powers (1814–1914) to maintain balance of power and prevent another Napoleonic War.

What were the decision-making rules in the Concert of Europe?

Great Powers had veto power, informed each other of decisions, and excluded smaller states from voting.

What is Constructivism in international relations?

A theory that focuses on how norms, culture, and ideas shape state behavior, often through International Organizations (I.O.s).

Why are bureaucracies important in International Organizations (I.O.s)?

They provide autonomy, shape norms, and influence state policies (e.g., WHO advisories on health policies).

How do I.O.s gain legitimacy?

Through expertise, de-politicization of issues, and the ability to influence state behavior (e.g., UN resolutions).

How do I.O.s disseminate knowledge and norms? cf. Stedman’s reading

Through epistemic communities (experts) and spreading ideas (e.g., Universal Declaration of Human Rights).

Can I.O.s create international law?

Yes, through binding agreements (e.g., UN resolutions) and influencing domestic policies (e.g., World Bank loan conditions).

What is the Principal-Agent Framework in I.O.s?

A model where states (principals) delegate authority to I.O.s (agents), which may act autonomously.

How does Max Weber’s theory apply to I.O.s?

Bureaucracies shape norms and culture within organizations, influencing decision-making and state behavior.

How did nationalism affect the Concert of Europe?

Nationalism (e.g., Italian and German unification) challenged the balance of power and contributed to the Concert’s breakdown.

How is the UN Security Council similar to the Concert of Europe?

Both involve Great Powers with veto power, aim to maintain peace, and shape international law.