Week 5: History of IR and Theories of Global Change

These flashcards cover fundamental concepts from the lecture on the history of international relations and theories of global change.

Human societies

Face constant change and continuity, where crises may appear transformative but often reflect deeper patterns.

Realism

A perspective emphasizing continuity in international relations, while acknowledging new concerns like environment and human security.

Continuity

The unchanging aspects of structures and patterns that shape history and society.

Change

The processes that involve transitions, such as from unipolarity to multipolarity, and the types of change categorized by their impact.

Epiphenomena

Minor changes that result in no real effects on the international system.

Major/structural changes

Deeply transformative alterations that disrupt existing frameworks in international order.

Triangular Structure of World Order

Robert Cox's theory that illustrates the interaction of ideas/norms, material capabilities, and institutions.

Shared beliefs

Normative ideas concerning power, justice, and social order that influence global relations.

Cultural Hegemony

Antonio Gramsci’s concept explaining how societal dominance is maintained through ideological consent rather than overt oppression.

Dialectical Materialism

A Marxist theory where the changing mode of production influences material conditions and societal reactions.

Hegemony

A shared structure of values and norms that sustains power across multiple states, rather than mere power dominance.

Pax Romana

The period of peace and stability in the Roman Empire, representing a form of hegemonic order.

Turbulence

Periods of instability and conflict that signal significant shifts in global politics and order.

Core Idea (Rosenau)

Global change occurs when existing systems fail to work effectively, leading to weakened order and governance.

Old Order

Refers to previous frameworks in international relations that may weaken and prompt new patterns of governance.

New World Disorder (NWD)

A term reflecting the ongoing transformation of international systems, with old systems lingering alongside new.

Rethinking assumptions

The need to abandon outmoded frameworks to better understand and adapt to evolving global orders.

Consent and Coercive Force

The relationship between the ruling class's use of force and the appearance of consent among dominated classes.