midterm two IR practice questions

Limited War

A conflict fought for objectives short of a state's survival, such as control over territory or resources. Example: The Falklands/Malvinas War (1982).

Total War

A war fought for a state's survival involving full mobilization of society. Example: World War II for Nazi Germany.

Strategy

The long-term plan to achieve political goals in war. Example: U.S. strategy in Vietnam was containment.

Tactics

The specific battlefield methods used in war. Example: Search-and-destroy operations and bombing in Vietnam.

Anarchy in International Relations

The absence of a global authority above states, necessitating reliance on self-help for security. Example: The Cold War arms race.

Geopolitics

The study of the effects of geography on international politics and international relations. Example: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Bretton Woods Institutions

Three major financial institutions created to regulate the international monetary system: IMF, IBRD, GATT.

Mercantilism

An economic theory that emphasizes the importance of a nation’s wealth and power in promoting national self-interest.

Economic Liberalism

An approach emphasizing free markets and minimal government intervention in the economy.

Marxism

A socio-economic theory that focuses on class struggle and capitalist exploitation.

Intersectionality

The interconnected nature of social categorizations such as race, class, and gender, leading to overlapping systems of discrimination or disadvantage. Example: A Latina woman facing combined racial and gender discrimination.

International Organization

A formal institution where states cooperate on global issues like security, trade, or health. Example: The UN.

Nationalism's Impact on War

Nationalism promotes division and aggression, making war more likely. Example: Serbian nationalism and the Yugoslav Wars.

Clausewitz’s View on War

War is politics by other means, often following failed diplomacy and serving political goals.

Critical Security Studies

Critiques traditional security for being too narrow, often focusing only on state and military aspects.

Focus of International Security

International security should focus on individuals, as modern threats directly affect people.

Anti-Globalization Movement

Critiques global institutions for imposing unfair policies, especially on developing nations. Example: IMF austerity measures.

Global Economy and Gender

The global economy is gendered, with women's labor often undervalued, especially in low-wage jobs.

Theories on International Organizations

Different theories explain IOs' creation: Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism, and Marxism. Most compelling: Liberalism.

Power Dynamics in International Organizations

International organizations often reflect the power dynamics of states, where dominant states can control outcomes. Example: U.S. veto power in the UN.

Globalization and Regional Integration

Globalization drives regional integration for competitiveness; example: The EU fosters both regional and global trade.