Key Concepts in International Relations

These flashcards cover essential terms and concepts relevant to the study of international relations, focusing on different theoretical frameworks and notable figures.

Neorealism

A theory in international relations that emphasizes the influence of the structure of the international system on state behavior.

Defensive structural realism

A variant of realism that suggests states seek to maintain their security rather than maximize power.

Offensive structural realism

A variant of realism that posits states are inherently power-maximizers and should seek to dominate the international system.

Neoclassical realism

A theoretical approach that incorporates both the systemic level of analysis and the internal attributes of states.

Power transition realism

A theory that focuses on the rise and fall of great powers and the dynamics of their interactions.

Game Theory

A mathematical framework for modeling scenarios in which conflicts of interest exist among players.

Prisoners' Dilemma

A standard example of a game in which two players can either cooperate or defect, with the outcome dependent on the simultaneous choice made by each player.

Zero-sum game

A situation in which one participant's gain or loss is exactly balanced by the losses or gains of other participants.

Nash equilibrium

A situation in a game where no player can benefit by changing their strategy while the other players keep theirs unchanged.

Security dilemma

A situation in which a state's efforts to secure itself lead to increased insecurity for other states.

Anarchy

A foundational concept in international relations, referring to the absence of a central authority in the international system.

Securitization

The process of turning an issue into a matter of security, thus enabling extraordinary measures to be justified.

Monadic democratic peace mechanisms

The idea that democracies are more peaceful in their internal relations.

Dyadic democratic peace mechanisms

The theory that democracies are less likely to wage war against each other.

Fog of War

The uncertainty in situational awareness experienced by participants in military operations.

Public good

A commodity or service that is made available to all members of a society, typically provided by the government.

Free rider

An individual who benefits from resources, goods, or services without paying for them.

Identity

The qualities, beliefs, personality, looks, and expressions that make a person or group.

Balancing / Balance of Power

A situation in international relations in which nations have roughly equal strength, thus dissuading aggression.

Norms

The shared expectations and rules that guide the behavior of members in a community.

The Rise of China

The economic and military growth of China, impacting global relations.

Anarchy is What States Make of It

A constructivist interpretation asserting that the international system’s structure does not inherently impact state behavior.