POLS1201 - Constructivism

Social Construction

Core idea — many aspects of international relations (sovereignty, security, norms, identities) are not fixed, but created through shared beliefs.

Norms

Shared expectations about appropriate behaviour. E.g. sovereignty, human rights, nuclear taboo, R2P. Constructivists study how norms emerge and evolve.

Identity

States act based on who they think they are and how they relate to others — not just material interests. How actors define themselves and others; affects state behavior.

Inter-subjectivity

The shared understanding between actors that gives meaning to international practices.

Agent-Structure Relationship

Constructivism sees a mutual relationship: actors shape the international system (structure), but are also shaped by it.

Change and Transformation

Unlike realism or liberalism, constructivism emphasises that change is possible, because norms and identities evolve.

Framing

The way an issue is presented or ‘framed’ shapes how it is perceived (e.g. whether a situation is seen as a threat, crisis, or humanitarian issue).

Alexander Wendt

“Anarchy is what states make of it” — meaning that there’s no inherent logic to anarchy; it’s shaped by shared ideas and practice.

Martha Finnemore & Kathryn Sikkink

Introduced the idea of a “norm life cycle” — how norms emerge, cascade, and become internalised.

Nicholas Onuf

Coined the term “constructivism” in IR. Emphasised language and rules in shaping international outcomes.

Norm Entrepreneurs

Actors (individuals, NGOs, states) who promote new norms (e.g. R2P, climate justice).

Ideas over Material Power

Constructivists believe ideas, beliefs, and norms matter more than guns and money in many cases.

Constructivism

IR theory emphasizing the role of ideas, norms, and identities in shaping global politics.

Ideas

Beliefs that influence how states see the world and define interests.

Sovereignty as a Norm

Sovereignty is accepted and upheld through shared expectations.

Change Over Time

Constructivism explains how global norms evolve (e.g., slavery, women’s rights).

Social Context

The background and relationships that give meaning to behavior.

Norm Entrepreneurs

Actors who promote new ideas and norms (e.g., NGOs, activists).

State Interests

Constructed through identity and social context, not just material needs.

Institutionalisation of Norms

Embedding norms into global institutions (e.g., human rights).

Human Rights Norms

Example of constructivist evolution in state behavior and law.

Securitisation Theory

Shows how issues become “security threats” through discourse.

Legitimacy

Belief in the rightfulness of an authority or norm.