Paradigms and Approaches in International Relations

These flashcards cover key concepts, theories, and paradigms discussed in the lecture about International Relations.

What is a paradigm in International Relations (IR)?

A worldview that shapes how scholars interpret and understand the international system, including its basic units and key problems.

What is the Kuhn Cycle Model?

A model of paradigm change that includes stages such as normal science, model crisis, model drift, and model revolution.

What characterizes 'normal science' according to the Structure of Scientific Revolution?

It involves accepted theories and standard methods, where scientists refine details within a correct paradigm.

What happens during 'model drift'?

Scientists encounter anomalies and question whether the existing paradigm is flawed.

What leads to a 'model crisis'?

The emergence of large anomalies that cannot be explained within the current paradigm.

What occurs during a 'model revolution'?

A new paradigm emerges that better explains anomalies, leading to the abandonment of the old framework.

What is the main focus of Realism in IR?

It emphasizes power politics, state survival, and the absence of international government.

What are the core elements of Realism?

Statism, survival, and self-help.

What are the key assumptions of Liberalism in IR?

It assumes the primacy of the individual, feasibility of cooperation, and importance of international institutions.

What does Liberal Internationalism suggest about democratic nations?

They tend to avoid wars and base declarations of war on citizen consent.