POLS 1402: Introduction to International Relations - Midterm Review

Vocabulary flashcards covering core theoretical frameworks, concepts, and guidelines from POLS 1402 Introduction to International Relations.

Security dilemma

A situation in which steps a state takes to increase its own security, such as building up its military or forming alliances, make other states feel less secure and lead them to respond in kind.

Anarchy (in IR theory)

The absence of a central authority above states.

Liberalism

An IR theoretical perspective that places the greatest emphasis on international institutions, transparency, and economic interdependence as ways to reduce conflict and ease the security dilemma.

Constructivism

An IR theoretical perspective asserting that state interests and identities are shaped by shared ideas, norms, and social interaction.

The Melian Dialogue

A classical text by Thucydides in which the Athenian argument most clearly reflects the realist theoretical perspective in IR.

Feminist approach to IR

A perspective in international relations that investigates how gender hierarchies shape international politics and security.

Realism

An IR school of thought that conceptualizes inter-state relations through power, anarchy, and the security dilemma, arguing that anarchy pushes states toward competition even when no one wants war.