International Relations Review: Key Theories and Concepts

These flashcards cover essential theories and concepts in International Relations, including Post-Positivism, Post-Colonialism, Race and Gender Theory, and critiques of Bargaining Theory, along with relevant examples and economic theories.

What is Post-Positivism in International Relations?

A framework that addresses issues such as race and gender, emerging from dissatisfaction with neorealism and critiques traditional IR models for their focus on the Global North and exclusion of marginalized groups.

What does Post-Colonialism focus on?

The relationship between the Global North and Global South, viewing states in their own terms to allow for a new identity beyond colonized identities.

What is Race Theory's impact on International Relations?

Race shapes IR by promoting power imbalances and eurocentric theories, leading to discrimination against non-white and non-European states.

How does Gender Theory relate to International Relations?

Gender Theory argues that IR is gendered, favoring qualities connected to masculinity, which influences the portrayal and roles of leaders.

What is Microfoundations in the context of International Relations?

The analysis linking IR to individual behavior and interactions, such as leaders' personalities and their impacts on decisions like war.

What is Narcissism in International Relations?

A psychological trait of leaders characterized by an inflated self-image and lack of empathy, which can lead to prolonged conflicts.

What are the two types of conflict discussed in the lecture?

Intersate Conflict (war between states) and Intrastate Conflict (war within a state's borders, such as civil wars).

What is the Bargaining Theory?

A theory explaining how parties negotiate, often failing due to misalignments of interests resulting in war.

What leads to commitment problems in International Relations?

States have incentives to renege on negotiated deals due to shifting power balances and lack of trust.

How does the Iraq War illustrate the failure of Bargaining Theory?

The Iraq War showcased issues such as misinformation, commitment problems, and personal beliefs influencing decision-making.

What are the critiques of Bargaining Theory?

Bargaining Theory is critiqued for assuming rational actors and failing to account for domestic politics and biases of leaders.

What is Mercantilism in International Political Economy?

An economic theory emphasizing state power, where economic interests serve military goals, often conflicting rather than cooperative.

What does Economic Liberalism advocate?

It emphasizes individual gain and open markets, viewing economy as an arena for rational individuals to pursue their interests.

What is the Ricardian Law of Comparative Advantage?

A principle stating that countries can benefit from trade by specializing in goods they produce most efficiently.

What defines Marxism in International Relations?

A theory focusing on class struggle, viewing global political economy as a conflict between wealthy and working classes.

What is the Modernization Theory's position on development?

It posits that developing countries should adopt the same development paths as the Western nations.

What role do tariffs play in international trade?

Tariffs are federal taxes on imports, aimed at protecting domestic industries and raising government revenue.

What are the pros and cons of tariffs?

Pros include protection of vulnerable industries and potential job creation; cons involve costs to consumers and potential long-term diplomatic issues.