Chapter 5 (FOUNDATIONS OF INTL. RELATIONS)

Chapter 5 (FOUNDATIONS OF INTL. RELATIONS)

Introduction to Levels of Analysis

• The global system today involves diverse actors, not just states and organizations but also individuals—from powerful elites to ordinary people.

• This chapter introduces analytical tools that aid in understanding and interpreting the complexity of International Relations.

• Prior chapters have built a historical foundation; now, the focus is on how these complexities are analyzed through levels of analysis.

Establishing the Four Levels of Analysis

• Academics structure their analyses with effective frameworks, often through theories that interpret events abstractly based on real-world complexities.

• Scholars make intuitive decisions on focusing their analysis: the entire international system, specific interactions, or individual decision-makers.

Four Levels of Analysis

1. System Level

   • Encompasses the global system as a whole.

   • Examines the distribution of power, economic systems, global governance, and technology diffusion.

   • Conditions at this level impose structural factors on lower levels.

2. State Level

   • Focuses on nation-states as actors within given external environments and with specific internal characteristics (e.g., democratic vs. authoritarian systems).

   • Considers states' strategic and economic positions.

3. Group Level

   • Analyzes actors within social, organizational, and bureaucratic contexts.

   • Highlights interactions among decision-makers, political parties, NGOs, and interest groups.

4. Individual Level

   • Examines the behaviors and decisions of individuals in both governmental and non-governmental roles.

   • Investigates personal beliefs, fears, and personalities influencing decisions.

Historical Context and Evolution of Levels of Analysis

• Early International Relations lacked clear distinctions among various levels of analysis.

• Kenneth Waltz (1959) introduced different 'images' to analyze issues such as war:

  1. The Individual: Human nature’s role in behavior

  2. The State: Internal characteristics influencing state behavior

  3. The System: Structure impacting inter-state interactions

• Mainstream focus was on the state, especially influenced by Cold War dynamics.

• Notable Exception: Kelman (1970) emphasized the individual level.

Modern Shifts in Analysis

• After the Cold War, analysis has expanded beyond state-centric views to include various political entities and actors.

• Individuals and non-state actors have gained recognition for their influence on international dynamics.

• Impactful figures like Osama bin Laden and Julian Assange illustrate how private individuals can shape international relations.

Case Application: Levels of Analysis in the Covid-19 Pandemic

• Analyzing COVID-19's global impact requires focusing on specific analytical levels.

  • System Level: Evaluates global governance changes post-pandemic.

  • State Level: Focuses on state responses and self-interests.

  • Group Level: Looks at decision-making within political parties and interest groups.

  • Individual Level: Investigates the actions of influential leaders (e.g., Trump).

Insights from Group and Individual Levels

• Jacinda Ardern's Response:

  • Analyzed at system level, state level, and individual level, showing varied perspectives regarding effective leadership and outcomes during the pandemic.

• Each level contributes unique insights, shaping our understanding of international relations.

Challenges and Criticisms of Levels of Analysis

• Some scholars argue that levels are arbitrary, posing questions about the validity of analysis at these levels.

• Arena vs. Processual Approaches:

  • The arena approach emphasizes distinct locations for interactions.

  • The processual approach focuses on interconnected processes occurring simultaneously.

The Role of Technology and Individuals in Modern International Relations

• Social media's role has transformed interaction dynamics, allowing individual voices to influence international politics.

• The Arab Spring:

  • Sparked by the actions of individuals, such as Tarek Bouazizi, showcasing the impact individuals can have through social media.

• Greta Thunberg:

  • Her climate activism leveraged social media to mobilize global awareness, indicating the potential for localized activism to achieve global impact.

Conclusion

• Levels of analysis improve understanding of complex issues in International Relations by distinguishing relevant perspectives.

• The discipline has shifted towards recognizing the importance of individual and group contributions, reflecting a more nuanced view of global challenges.

• As history demonstrates, one person's voice can resonate throughout the international system, influencing outcomes far beyond conventional political frameworks.