The Nature of Order in World Politics

Flashcards covering key concepts from 'The Nature of Order in World Politics' by Hedley Bull, focusing on order in social life and international relations.

Order

A pattern of human activity that sustains elementary, primary or universal goals of social life.

Sovereignty

Supremacy and independence of a state in relation to other states, encompassing both internal and external aspects.

Anarchical Society

A society without a central government, where order is maintained among sovereign states through established norms and practices.

International Order

A pattern of activity that sustains the goals of the society of states, essential for maintaining peace and cooperation.

Elementary Goals of Social Life

Primary objectives pursued by all societies, including security against violence, keeping promises, and stability of possession.

Grotian Tradition

An international perspective that views international politics as a society of states governed by common rules and institutions.

Legitimacy

The widely accepted right of a government to exercise power or authority, crucial for maintaining order within a state and internationally.

Rules of Coexistence

Agreed standards that prescribe acceptable behavior among states, facilitating interaction and cooperation.

Balance of Power

A principle in international relations where power is distributed among states to prevent any one state from becoming too dominant.

Functional Institutions

Structures within international relations that help maintain order by facilitating cooperation and establishing norms among states.