Global Politics Theories and Terms Flashcards

Flashcards covering vocabulary terms from International Relations theories.

Realism

Focuses on power, survival, and the anarchic nature of the international system. States are seen as rational actors seeking to maximize their power and security.

Liberalism

Emphasizes cooperation between states through institutions, economic interdependence, and democratic peace.

Constructivism

International politics is socially constructed through ideas, norms, and identities rather than just material factors.

Neorealism (Structural Realism)

Focuses on the structure of the international system, particularly the distribution of power, rather than state-level characteristics.

Neoliberal Institutionalism

Recognizes an anarchic system but argues that international institutions and regimes can foster cooperation among states.

Marxism

International relations are shaped by economic interests, class struggle, and global capitalism.

World-Systems Theory

The world is divided into core, semi-periphery, and periphery regions, with wealth and power concentrated in the core at the expense of the periphery.

Critical Theory

Seeks to uncover hidden power structures, questioning the status quo and dominant ideologies in international politics.

Poststructuralism

Questions the fixed categories and assumptions of traditional IR theories. Focuses on language, discourse, and how power is exercised through knowledge.

Feminism

Highlights the gendered nature of international relations and how traditional theories marginalize women's experiences and perspectives.

Postcolonialism

Examines how colonial histories continue to shape global power dynamics and international relations.

English School

Focuses on the concept of an international society where states share common rules, institutions, and values.

Green Theory (Environmental IR)

Focuses on global environmental issues and sustainability in international relations.

Anarchy

The absence of a central authority in the international system. States operate in a self-help system, where no overarching power enforces rules or laws.

Sovereignty

The authority of a state to govern itself without external interference.

State

A political entity with a defined territory, permanent population, government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states.

Nation

A group of people with shared culture, language, history, and identity.

Power

The ability of an actor (usually a state) to influence others and achieve its goals.

National Interest

The strategic goals and objectives of a state, often focused on security, economic prosperity, and influence.

Balance of Power

A situation where no single state or alliance dominates the international system, maintaining stability through the distribution of power.

Diplomacy

The practice of negotiation and dialogue between states to manage international relations and conflicts.

International Law

A body of rules and norms that govern relations between states and other international actors.

International Organization

An entity created by states to facilitate cooperation and address global issues.

Globalization

The increasing interconnectedness of states, economies, and societies through trade, communication, and technology.

Security Dilemma

A situation where one state's actions to increase its security (e.g., military buildup) lead others to feel threatened, potentially causing conflict.

Non-State Actor

An entity that influences international relations but is not a state (e.g., multinational corporations, terrorist groups, NGOs).

Soft Power

The ability to influence others through attraction and persuasion, rather than coercion or force.

Hard Power

The use of military and economic means to influence others.

Hegemony

Dominance of one state or group of states in the international system.

Collective Security

An arrangement where states agree to respond collectively to threats against any member.

Human Rights

Fundamental rights that all individuals possess, regardless of nationality, recognized in documents like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

Realism

A theory emphasizing state power, security, and the anarchic nature of the international system.

Liberalism

A theory emphasizing cooperation, institutions, and the role of democracy and economic interdependence in promoting peace.

Constructivism

A theory that emphasizes the role of ideas, norms, and identities in shaping international relations.

Neocolonialism

The use of economic, political, and cultural pressures by former colonial powers to control or influence former colonies.

Interdependence

A condition where states and actors are mutually dependent on each other, particularly in economic and security matters.

Regionalism

The organization of states into regional groups to foster economic and political cooperation.

Terrorism

The use of violence and intimidation, often targeting civilians, to achieve political objectives.

Rule of Law

The principle that all actors, including states, are subject to and accountable under established laws.

Legitimacy

The perception that a state's or institution's authority is rightful and justified, often based on legal, moral, or democratic principles.

Justice

The fair and equitable treatment of individuals and states, ensuring that rights are respected and responsibilities are upheld.

Equality

The principle that all individuals and states have the same rights, opportunities, and protections under international law.

Liberty

The condition of being free from oppressive restrictions, including the ability to exercise rights and freedoms.

Development

The process of improving the economic, social, and political well-being of a state or society, typically through industrialization, education, and infrastructure.

Inequality

The uneven distribution of wealth, power, opportunities, or resources within or between states and populations.

Sustainability

Meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, balancing economic growth, environmental protection, and social equity.

Peace

The absence of conflict, including both the absence of direct violence (negative peace) and the presence of justice, cooperation, and stability (positive peace).

Conflict

A struggle or clash between opposing parties, which can be violent (wars) or non-violent (diplomatic disputes).

Non-Violence

A philosophy or strategy of resolving conflict without physical violence, often through dialogue, negotiation, or civil disobedience.

Violence

The use of physical force to harm others, damage property, or achieve political objectives.