Comparative Theories

• What are the two main theories in global politics?

  Realism and Liberalism
• What is the primary goal of states in Realism?

  To protect their own national interests
• How do states advance their interests according to Liberalism?

  By working closely with each other and non-state actors
• What is the principal belief of Liberalism regarding states?

  States can and should work together
• What role do non-state actors play in Liberalism?

  They have a positive role in global politics
• What do Liberals believe about international law?

  It is possible and desirable
• What is meant by "Anarchical society" in Liberalism?

  Absence of authority or government
• How do Liberals view conflict among states?

  Conflict is avoidable through cooperation
• What is the security dilemma in Realism?

  Building defenses increases tensions
• What do Realists believe about the nature of states?

  States are primarily self-interested and competitive
• Who is a key thinker associated with Realism?

  Kenneth Waltz
• What does Kenneth Waltz's theory emphasize?

  States are security maximizers
• What is the primary goal of states according to Realism?

  To increase their power and influence
• What is the Billiard Ball Model in Realism?

  It represents states as self-interested actors
• What do Liberals believe about economic interdependence?

  It reduces the likelihood of conflict
• What was the EU awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for?

  Promoting economic cooperation and peace
• How do IGO's contribute to conflict resolution according to Liberals?

  They provide forums for peaceful dispute resolution
• What is a key constraint on conflict identified by Liberals?

  Democracy
• How does democracy act as a constraint on conflict?

  Conflict between democratic states is rare
• What is the significance of the UK Parliament's vote against military action in Syria?

  It shows accountability in democratic states
• What do Liberals believe about human rights?

  They are globally shared values worth defending
• Who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for strengthening international diplomacy?

  Barack Obama
• What does the EU require from its member states?

  To meet certain democratic criteria
• What is the primary motivation of states according to Realism?

  To increase their power
• What is the role of sovereignty in Realism?

  It is crucial for national interests
• How did Russia justify its actions in Crimea?

  By claiming national interest and security
• What was the slogan of the Brexit campaign?

  Vote leave, take back control
• What do Realists believe about the role of IGO's?

  They limit the power of nation-states
• What is the significance of the term "complex interdependence"?

  It challenges traditional Realist views
• Who are some famous Realist thinkers?

  Kenneth Waltz, John Mearsheimer
• What does the "cobweb" model suggest?

  It reflects complex interdependence in global politics
• What is the main idea behind the "billiard ball" model?

  States are self-interested and competitive
• How do Realists view human nature?

  As inherently selfish and competitive
• What is the significance of military power in Realism?

  It is crucial for national security
• What do Realists believe about the international system?

  It is anarchic and competitive
• How do Realists view alliances?

  As necessary for security but temporary
• What is the primary concern of Realists regarding other states?

  Every state is potentially a threat
• What do Liberals believe about the future of global politics?

  It should trend towards cooperation and interdependence
• How do Realists view the concept of power?

  It is the most important aspect of politics
• What do Realists believe about the role of ethics in politics?

  Ethics are less important than national interest