Key Terms in International Relations

A series of vocabulary flashcards related to key terms in international relations, providing definitions and context for each term.

Levels of analysis

A framework for understanding international relations that examines different dimensions such as individual, state, and international levels.

Unipolarity

A structure of international system where a single state holds the most significant power.

Hegemonic stability theory

The theory that a stable international order is created when a single nation-state holds the dominance.

Bipolarity

An international system structure dominated by two major powers.

Multipolarity

A system in which multiple states hold significant power and influence.

Multilateralism

A diplomatic approach involving multiple countries working together on a given issue.

State

An organized political community under a government.

Nation

A group of people who share common characteristics such as culture, language, or ethnicity.

Nation-state

A political entity characterized by a defined territory and a coherent population that shares a common national identity.

Soft power

The ability to influence others through cultural or ideological means rather than military force.

Hard power

The use of coercion and force to influence the behavior of others.

Smart power

The combination of both soft and hard power strategies in international relations.

Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

A global development strategy adopted by China involving infrastructure development and investments in various countries.

Track-one diplomacy

Official government diplomatic engagements through formal negotiations.

Track-two diplomacy

Unofficial interactions and dialogue between non-state actors to resolve conflicts.

Public diplomacy

The process by which a country communicates with foreign publics to establish a dialogue designed to inform and influence.

Collective security

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

Deterrence theory

A strategy intended to dissuade opponents from taking unwanted action by threatening severe retaliation.

Terrorism

The unlawful use of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, in pursuit of political aims.

Power transition theory

A theory that analyzes the rise and fall of global powers in terms of international conflicts.

Non-Proliferation Treaty

An international treaty aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons.

Self-determination

The right of a nation or people to determine its own path or governance.

Commercial peace theory

The idea that economic interdependence reduces the likelihood of conflict between states.

Cyberwarfare

The use of digital attacks by one nation to disrupt the vital computer systems of another.

What are sanctions?

Sanctions are measures taken by countries or international organizations to influence a nation's behavior, often involving economic restrictions.

What are smart sanctions?

Smart sanctions target specific individuals, entities, or sectors of an economy to minimize broader harm to the civilian population.

What is compellence?

Compellence is a strategy aimed at influencing an opponent to take a particular action, often through threats or limited force.

What is deterrence?

Deterrence is a strategy intended to prevent an adversary from taking an unwanted action by instilling fear of significant consequences.

What does credibility refer to in international relations?

Credibility is the belief that a state's commitments, threats, or promises are reliable and will be acted upon.

What are ethnonational movements?

Ethnonational movements are efforts by ethnic groups to gain sovereignty or autonomy based on shared cultural or national identity.

What is extremist Islamic fundamentalism?

Extremist Islamic fundamentalism is a radical belief system advocating for a strict interpretation of Islam, often accompanied by political violence.

What defines fragile states?

Fragile states are countries with weak institutions, governance, and capacity to maintain law and order, leading to insecurity and instability.

What are transnational movements?

Transnational movements span across national borders and involve the mobilization of individuals or groups sharing common goals or identities.

What is commercial peace theory?

Commercial peace theory suggests that economic interdependence between nations reduces the likelihood of conflict, promoting peace.

What are belligerent identities/perception?

Belligerent identities/perception refer to the ways in which groups view themselves and others in conflict, often exacerbating hostility.

What are interstate wars?

Interstate wars are conflicts between two or more sovereign states.

What are intrastate wars?

Intrastate wars are conflicts occurring within a single state, often between factions or groups seeking control or autonomy.

What are conventional wars?

Conventional wars involve traditional military forces using established tactics and strategies in large-scale conflicts.

What are unconventional wars?

Unconventional wars involve irregular tactics, such as guerrilla warfare, aimed at undermining a traditional military's effectiveness.