International Relations Theory Study Cards

Enhance Your Learning with International Relations Theory Flash Cards for quick learning



Realism

A theory that emphasizes the role of power and self-interest in international relations, suggesting that states act in their own national interest and prioritize security.

Liberalism

A theory that emphasizes the importance of cooperation, institutions, and norms in international relations, suggesting that states can work together to achieve common goals.

Constructivism

A theory that focuses on the role of ideas, norms, and social constructs in shaping international relations, suggesting that identities and beliefs influence state behavior.

Marxism

A theory that views international relations through the lens of class struggle and economic inequality, suggesting that capitalism and imperialism drive global conflicts.

Feminism

A theory that examines the role of gender in international relations, highlighting the unequal power dynamics and advocating for gender equality and women's rights.

Postcolonialism

A theory that analyzes the legacy of colonialism and imperialism in international relations, focusing on power imbalances, cultural domination, and resistance.

Neorealism

A variant of realism that emphasizes the importance of the international system's structure and distribution of power in shaping state behavior.

Neoliberalism

A variant of liberalism that emphasizes the role of economic interdependence, institutions, and free markets in promoting cooperation and peace among states.

Critical Theory

A theoretical approach that challenges the existing power structures and norms in international relations, aiming to uncover hidden inequalities and promote social justice.

Balance of Power

A concept that suggests states seek to maintain equilibrium by aligning with or against other states to prevent any single state from dominating the international system.

Power Transition Theory

A theory that explains conflicts and power shifts in the international system as a result of rising and declining powers challenging the existing hegemony.

Democratic Peace Theory

A theory that argues democracies are less likely to go to war with each other, suggesting that democratic institutions and norms promote peaceful relations.

Anarchy

A condition in international relations where there is no central authority or world government, leading to a self-help system where states rely on their own capabilities.

State Sovereignty

The principle that states have the exclusive right to govern their territory and make decisions without external interference, recognizing their independence and autonomy.

International Organizations

Institutions created by states to facilitate cooperation and address global issues, such as the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and International Monetary Fund.

Globalization

The increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of countries through the exchange of goods, services, information, and ideas, shaping international relations.

Security Dilemma

A situation where actions taken by one state to enhance its security are perceived as threatening by other states, leading to an escalation of tensions and potential conflicts.

Soft Power

The ability to influence others and shape international outcomes through attraction, persuasion, and cultural appeal, rather than through military or economic coercion.

Hard Power

The use of military force, economic sanctions, or other coercive measures to achieve political objectives and influence the behavior of other states.

Nationalism

A strong sense of loyalty and devotion to one's nation, often leading to the pursuit of national interests and the belief in the superiority of one's own nation.

Colonialism

The practice of acquiring and maintaining colonies by a more powerful country, involving the political, economic, and cultural domination of the colonized territories.

Imperialism

The policy or ideology of extending a nation's power and influence over other countries, often through military force, economic control, or cultural assimilation.

Global Governance

The collective management of global issues and challenges through cooperation and coordination among states, international organizations, and non-state actors.

International Law

A set of rules and norms that govern the conduct of states and other international actors, providing a framework for peaceful relations and resolving disputes.

Human Rights

Universal rights and freedoms that all individuals are entitled to, regardless of their nationality, ethnicity, gender, or other characteristics, as recognized by international law.

Conflict Resolution

The process of peacefully resolving disputes and conflicts between individuals, groups, or states through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or other means.

Diplomacy

The practice of conducting negotiations and maintaining relations between states, often involving skilled diplomats and diplomatic channels to promote dialogue and cooperation.

Foreign Policy

A government's strategy and actions in dealing with other countries and international issues, including diplomatic, economic, and military measures to pursue national interests.

International Cooperation

The act of working together and pooling resources among states to address common challenges, such as climate change, terrorism, or global health crises.

International Security

The measures and actions taken by states and international organizations to protect the safety and well-being of individuals, states, and the international system as a whole.

International Political Economy

The study of the interaction between politics and economics in international relations, examining how states and non-state actors manage economic issues and global trade.

Non-State Actors

Entities that are not states but have significant influence and participate in international relations, such as multinational corporations, NGOs, and terrorist organizations.

Regionalism

The process of cooperation and integration among states within a specific geographic region, often involving economic, political, and security cooperation.

International Norms

Shared expectations and standards of behavior that guide the actions and interactions of states and other international actors, shaping international relations.

Power Politics

The pursuit and exercise of power by states in international relations, often involving competition, conflict, and the use of force to protect or advance national interests.

Hegemony

The dominance and leadership of one state or a group of states over others, often achieved through economic, military, or cultural means.

Balance of Threat

A concept that suggests states align against common threats, regardless of their ideological or political differences, to maintain their security and survival.

Interdependence

A condition in which states and other actors are mutually dependent on each other for economic, political, or security reasons, leading to interconnectedness and cooperation.

International Institutions

Organizations and structures created by states to facilitate cooperation, coordinate policies, and manage global issues, such as the United Nations and World Bank.

Peacekeeping

The deployment of international forces to conflict zones or areas of potential conflict to maintain peace, protect civilians, and support the implementation of peace agreements.

Arms Control

Efforts to limit or reduce the production, possession, and deployment of weapons, such as nuclear, chemical, or conventional weapons, to promote stability and prevent conflicts.

Nuclear Proliferation

The spread and acquisition of nuclear weapons by additional states or non-state actors, raising concerns about the potential for nuclear conflicts and arms races.

Global South

A term used to refer to developing countries, often located in the Southern Hemisphere, facing economic, social, and political challenges and seeking greater global influence.

Global North

A term used to refer to developed countries, often located in the Northern Hemisphere, with advanced economies, political stability, and global influence.

Cold War

A period of geopolitical tension and rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union, characterized by ideological conflicts, proxy wars, and the arms race.

Post-Cold War Era

The period following the end of the Cold War, marked by significant changes in the international system, including the emergence of new powers and global challenges.