Chapter 6 (FOUNDATIONS OF INTL. RELATIONS)

Chapter 6 (FOUNDATIONS OF INTL. RELATIONS)

Introduction to International Relations Theory

• Simplification of International Relations theory: arguments between optimists and pessimists.

• Importance of understanding history: essential for analyzing current relevance and future insights.

• Theory as a tool: enhances understanding beyond historical facts; facilitates critical questioning of current issues and forecasts.

• Objectives of the chapter:

  • Identify the emergence and context for different theories.

  • Outline core features of traditional and middle ground theories.

  • Explore complexity within the theories.

Traditional and Middle Ground Theories

Theory Simplification for Beginners

• Understanding the complexity and diversity of International Relations theory is challenging, particularly for new students.

• To aid understanding, the chapter categorizes theories into three segments:

  • Traditional

  • Middle ground

  • Critical

• Individual theories presented as family analogies: commonalities among differing members despite disagreements.

• Focus on identifying shared assumptions helps newcomers build confidence in navigating theories.

Key Insights: Theory Families

• Theories help in forming comprehensive perspectives of the complex world.

• Theories act as maps: depict certain realities based on the theorist's purpose and focus.

• Varied student engagement: while some are drawn to theoretical explorations, others prefer empirical case studies; however, theoretical frameworks provide necessary context for any academic journey in International Relations.

Traditional Theories: Liberalism and Realism

Liberalism

• Emerged from idealism where a better world is posited as achievable.

• Key beliefs:

  • Humans are inherently good; peace is achievable among liberal states.

  • Influenced by Immanuel Kant: democratic states do not war with each other.

  • Democratic peace theory states that an increase in liberal democracies leads to a reduction in warfare.

• Key elements of liberal interactions include:

  • Trade: seen as beneficial; facilitates cultural exchange, cooperation, and economic relationships leading to peaceful coexistence.

  • International organizations: provide a structured platform for diplomacy, mediating disputes and promoting peace.

• Example: The League of Nations and its struggles post-WWII highlight the difficulties liberalism faces when peace fails.

Realism

• Argued as a response to liberalism's optimism; emphasizes war as an enduring feature.

• Key premises:

  • History reflects chaos and anarchy in international relations.

  • Individuals and states act based on self-interest leading to a pessimistic outlook on human nature.

• Key concepts:

  • Statism: nation-states as central players in anarchic international relations.

  • Survival: the necessity of state survival takes precedence over all other considerations.

  • Self-help: states must prioritize their security and rely on their resources.

• Historical basis:

  • Realism draws on the writings of Thucydides and Hobbes, illustrating the perpetual nature of conflict and security dilemmas.

Comparisons Between Liberalism and Realism

• Human Nature:

  • Liberals see humans as good; realists view them as self-interested.

• View of International Relations:

  • Realists see a dangerous world; liberals envision a cooperative and interconnected global system.

• Approach to War:

  • Realist framework includes war as a common reality; liberalism perceives it as a bug that can be reduced through institutions and democracy.

Middle Ground Theories

The English School

• Proposes a societal view among states, highlighting the balance between anarchy and order through shared norms.

• Anarchy should not be perceived as utter chaos; rather, states behave according to established rules and expectations.

Constructivism

• Focus on identities, shared ideas, and the interactions of individuals who influence state behavior.

• Highlights how norms emerge and the human capacity for change.

• Wendt's contributions: various interpretations of anarchy (Hobbesian, Lockean, Kantian) shape perceptions of international relations.

Norm Lifecycle in Constructivism

• Constructivism examines the emergence, cascading acceptance, and internalization of social norms.

• Example: The evolving status of Palestinian statehood highlights the dynamics of norms at the United Nations, stressing the importance of constructivism in understanding sovereignty.

Conclusion

• The chapter encapsulates diverse theories in International Relations, reinforcing that each presents valid insights into global affairs.

• Acknowledges complexity beyond a binary optimist/pessimist framework; encourages a toolkit perspective to analyze global issues.

End of Chapter Questions

1. Identify contemporary relevance of traditional theories.

2. Outline commonalities among realism, liberalism, and constructivism.

3. Discuss the focus on system and state levels in traditional theories.

4. Characterization of international anarchy by middle ground theories.

5. Personal reflection: Is warfare a bug or feature of the global system?