Theories of Global Politics and Key Historical Events

These flashcards cover key concepts, theories, historical moments, and terms that are essential for understanding global politics.

Theory

A simplifying device that helps decide which facts matter in explaining world politics.

Realism

Core idea: Competition between states with a constant struggle for power; states act in self-interest.

Liberalism

Core idea: Cooperation and institutions can bring peace, focusing on absolute gains among actors.

Marxism

Core idea: Economics drives politics with a division between the rich (bourgeoisie) and poor (proletariat).

Constructivism

Core idea: Ideas and norms shape global behavior, with states acting based on values and identities.

Feminism

Core idea: Gender influences global politics, preserving patriarchal power structures.

Peace of Westphalia

The 1648 treaty that ended the Thirty Years' War and established the principle of state sovereignty.

Nationalism

The belief in national superiority that can lead to conflict, as exemplified by Napoleon.

Treaty of Versailles

The 1919 treaty that blamed Germany for WWI and contributed to resentment leading to WWII.

The Cold War

A period of geopolitical tension between the US and USSR from 1947 to 1991, involving indirect conflicts.

Democratic Peace Theory

The theory stating that democracies do not fight each other due to shared values and institutional checks.

Non-state actors

Entities such as NGOs, multinational corporations, and international organizations that influence global politics.

Foreign Policy

How a nation secures its interests internationally through initiation, formulation, implementation, and evaluation.

Human Rights

Universal moral/legal standards protecting individuals, as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Globalization

Interconnectedness of politics, economy, environment, and culture shaping modern global relations.

Critical Theories

Analytical frameworks including Marxism, Constructivism, and Feminism that challenge traditional state-centric models.

NGOs

Non-governmental organizations that advocate for change and monitor global issues.

MNCs

Multinational corporations that operate across multiple countries and influence global economics and politics.

Cities of Refuge

Examples of regions or areas that offer safety and protection, influencing migration and humanitarian policies.