World Politics XIII: Climate Change

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture.

Climate Change

A critical global issue, now central to international discussions, recognized as a challenge of utmost importance for humankind.

International Cooperation

Essential for addressing global environmental problems, as solutions must be implemented at a global level due to the worldwide impact of these issues.

Globalization

Has intensified the global nature of climate change, making it a more interconnected and widespread issue.

Anthropocentrism

The perspective that views humanity as the central measure, judging all things based on human values and experiences; relevant in discussions about environmental ethics and policy.

Mitigation

Strategies and policies aimed at reducing the causes of climate change, primarily by decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.

Adaptation

Strategies and policies designed to help societies cope with the impacts of climate change, such as droughts, floods, and natural disasters.

Tragedy of the Commons

A situation where unrestricted access to a shared resource leads to over-exploitation and ruin, as individual short-term interests undermine the long-term collective interest in resource sustainability.

Free-rider problem

A challenge in international cooperation where nations benefit from collective agreements without contributing, potentially leading to a breakdown in cooperation.

Energy Independence/autonomy

The push for renewable energies is driven by concerns over reliance on fossil fuels, highlighted by events like the invasion of Ukraine and fears of depending on Russian gas.

Rodrik’s new trilemma

The tension between combating climate change, boosting the middle class in developing economies, and reducing global poverty that liberal democracies face.