PSC1200A EXAM REVIEW

What caused the shift from unipolarity to U.S. retrenchment in world politics?

Failures eroding credibility of U.S. power.

What were the twin crises of the early 21st century that affected U.S. confidence?

Forever wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and the global financial crisis.

What is the path dependency concept in relation to U.S. military interventions?

The further you go in a particular direction, the harder it is to turn back, leading to narrower choices.

What was the impact of the Forever Wars on U.S. soft power?

The insurgence, casualties, and torture significantly undermined U.S. soft power.

What led to the financial crisis in 2008?

Multiple shocks and irresponsible lending practices brought down the global economy.

How did the Afghanistan war illustrate U.S. military intervention challenges?

The war highlighted mismanagement, strategic missteps, and cultural disconnects that undermined efforts.

What was the result of the U.S. invasion of Iraq post-9/11?

It resulted in immense human and financial costs and destabilized the region.

What role did the U.S. Federal Reserve play during the financial crisis?

It became the only trusted lender, stepping in during the banking collapse.

What were the consequences of the financial crisis on global trust?

It caused a complete loss of trust in the Western capital order.

How did the 2008 elections respond to the financial crisis?

Obama won, signing bailout packages to rescue banks and private companies.

What is meant by the term 'Forever Wars'?

Refers to the prolonged military engagements, particularly in Iraq and Afghanistan, from 2001 onwards.

What did Bush frame the 9/11 terrorist attacks as?

He framed them not just as a terrorist attack but as a civilizational battle.

What major political backlash emerged in the U.S. following the financial crisis?

The emergence of the Tea Party on the right and Occupy Wall Street on the left.

What was the cost of wars in Afghanistan and Iraq combined?

Over $5 trillion.

What was a significant outcome of the U.S. interventions during the Forever Wars?

Creation of disorder despite attempts to establish order.