Theories of global politics

Realism - core belief

Global politics is formed on nation-states and their self-interests.

Egoism - definition

The defining feature of human behaviour is that it’s reducible to self-interested and competitive goals.

Thomas Hobbes key quote on selfish nature

"Man is a wolf to man."

Why do realists believe nations function in perpetual anarchy?

Nations aren’t governed by a single, centralised sovereign authority. This is compounded by scarce resources providing irreconcilable conflict of interests between nation-states.

Why should nations prioritise their own interests?

As these are permanents, whereas alliances are fragile and temporary, which interactions governed by mutual distrust.

They exist in a self-help environment

Some other assumptions that realists make

There is a natural conflict of interests

National interests always take precedence

Possibility of war is always lurking

What actor do realists believe is the most important globally?

Nation states as they embody the greatest concentration and exercise the legitimate use of coercive power in a world based on power politics

Are realists moral?

National interests should be amoral, as there is no objective morality, and moral and national considerations may not coincide. 

What is the security dilemma?

The unavoidable outcome of nation states pursuing power to serve self interests. In order to make itself feel more secure a nation-state will seek more power. Other states will follow, leading to a vicious cycle/ arms race. Leading to greater insecurity than to begin with.

What is the realist view of balance of power?

Nation states seek to establish a balance of power that works in their favour.

How have Hobbes’ views influenced realism?

The belief that human beings are selfish and so mankind are motivated by a desire for power - nation states act in the same way.

What are Morgenthau’s views?

‘the social world is but a projection of human nature onto the collective plane’ - always a power struggle between states

Liberalism - global definition 

Acknowledges the conflict of interests among nation-states but asserts that a natural equilibrium, based on a balance of interests will eventually establish itself. 

What does liberalism ultimately reject about realism

The unnecessary pessimism that nation states are inevitably at odds with each other. Not solely motivated by power and security, can achieve a collective good by working together.

Do liberals believe that states are solely motivated by the pragmatic consideration of self gain (as realists do)

No they believe moral considerations can also motivate the behaviour of nation states

Why do liberals look past inevitable conflicts of interests

Complementary interests temper these, creating a possibility of long term peace and cooperation. Cooperation means they can all achieve gains, international relations aren’t zero-sum.

What is the liberal view of non-state actors?

Place more importance on Non and inter governmental organisations than realists as they shape the agenda of discussions and debate

What is the liberal view of complex interdependence?

Interests of nation states can often align, creating interdependence in which cooperation, not conflict, is the default position.

Why do liberals encourage free trade?

To break down barriers that separate nations. If you rely on one another, less likely to go to war.

What are some examples of global problems that necessitate cooperation?

Climate change, refugees, drug trade, nuclear war, human trafficking

Which moral considerations do liberals believe can provide sources for mutual cooperation?

Those centered on the preservation of life, liberty and property.D

Do nation states believe there will be substantive moral agreement on all issues between states?

No, but can get sufficient level of agreement on some ethical issues.

Why is agreement only sufficient and not substantive?

Reasonings may differ, but can still cooperate pragmatically, they have the same objectives.

What is liberal interventionism?

On the basis of these mutual moral grounds, justifies global action and intervention to preserve human rights. 

What is the liberal view of human nature?

It is optimistics, that humans are rational and have a capacity for cooperation.

What key thinker do liberals base their view of human nature on?

John Locke - with his work on rationalism and natural rights which the state ought to protect

How do liberals base their views on Kant’s democratic peace theory?

That nation states based on the rule of law and the upholding of rights both domestically and internationally have a tendency toward cooperation and peace.

What is perpetual peace?

Based upon Kantian ethics, a harmony of interests tends toward perpetual peace which tends toward cooperation.

Key examples of international organisations

United Nations, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and development (OECD), G7, G20, European Union, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Interpol, TNCs, Amnesty International

Who developed the idea of anarchical society? Which strand is it in?

Hedley Bull: Neo-realismW

What is the anarchical society?

Global politics is still state-centred and anarchical, but nation states can choose to cooperate to best maximise security and self interest.

How does mutual reciprocity link into the anarchical society?

Long-term enlightened national self interest creates the possibility for cooperation as both sides benefit. 

How is the anarchical society different to liberalism?

Nation states choose to do this out of self interest, rather than a higher goal of democracy, free trade or human rights.

What is the society of states?

Self interested states act within a broadly cooperative set of rules & norms.

Is the global system fragile according to global realists?

Yes, there is always both stability and instability, order and conflict.