Political Science 101 > International Relations and Global Politics > Flashcards

International Relations and Global Politics Flashcards

Explores theories of international relations, roles of organizations, globalization, and key global issues like war and climate change. (105 cards)

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1
Q

Define:

International Relations

A

It is the study of how states, organizations, and non-state actors interact across borders.

It includes topics like conflict, cooperation, diplomacy, and global challenges.

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2
Q

Fill in the blanks:

The study of how global actors cooperate or compete is known as ______ ______.

A

Global politics

Global politics focuses on both state and non-state influence in international decision-making.

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3
Q

What are states in international relations?

A

Sovereign political entities that act independently in the international system, and are considered the primary actors in IR.

Their power depends on military, economy, and diplomacy.

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4
Q

Why are non-state actors important in international relations?

A

They influence global outcomes through advocacy, finance, or violence.

(e.g. NGOs, MNCs, terrorist groups)

They challenge the idea that states are the only major players in global affairs.

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5
Q

What is sovereignty in international relations?

A

The principle that each state has authority over its territory and is free from outside interference.

Sovereignty is foundational in international law but is often contested.

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6
Q

True or False:

Globalization has no impact on national sovereignty.

A

False

Globalization can weaken sovereignty by increasing interdependence and external pressures.

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7
Q

What’s the difference between multilateralism and unilateralism?

A

Multilateralism involves cooperation between multiple countries; unilateralism is when one state acts alone.

These approaches reflect different views on power, responsibility, and strategy.

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8
Q

How have historical events like colonization and world wars shaped today’s global order?

A

They led to the creation of new states, international institutions, and norms around sovereignty and rights.

The legacy of these events still influences international power dynamics.

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9
Q

What is Realism in international relations?

A

A theory that views states as self-interested actors operating in an anarchic system, seeking power and security.

Realism assumes that no global authority exists to enforce rules, so states must rely on their own strength.

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10
Q

True or False:

Realism assumes that international organizations are the key to global peace.

A

False

Realism sees institutions as weak compared to the power of states.

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11
Q

Fill in the blank:

According to realism, the international system is defined by ______, meaning no higher authority governs states.

A

anarchy

Anarchy doesn’t imply chaos, but the absence of a central authority.

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12
Q

How do realism and liberalism differ in their view of state behavior?

A

Realism emphasizes power and competition; liberalism focuses on cooperation and institutions.

Liberalism believes mutual gains are possible, especially through treaties and diplomacy.

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13
Q

What is liberalism in international relations?

A

A theory that sees states as capable of cooperation through institutions, economic interdependence, and shared values.

Liberalism encourages building peace through the UN, trade, and diplomacy.

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14
Q

Why does liberalism value economic interdependence?

A

It raises the cost of conflict, encouraging peaceful cooperation.

States tied economically are less likely to go to war.

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15
Q

How might a liberal explain the role of the United Nations in world politics?

A

As a platform for cooperation, conflict resolution, and rule enforcement among states.

Liberals believe institutions reduce uncertainty and foster trust.

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16
Q

What is constructivism in international relations?

A

A theory that highlights how ideas, norms, and identities shape state behavior.

Constructivism sees international politics as socially constructed, not just materially driven.

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17
Q

Fill in the blanks:

According to constructivism, international norms and identities are shaped through ______ ______.

A

social interaction

What is considered ‘appropriate’ or ‘powerful’ can evolve over time.

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18
Q

Why is national identity important for constructivists?

A

It influences how states perceive themselves and others, shaping foreign policy.

National identity can determine whether a country sees another as an ally or a threat.

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19
Q

What is Marxism in international relations?

A

A theory that views global politics through class struggle and economic exploitation under capitalism.

Marxist IR sees global inequality as a result of the capitalist system.

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20
Q

Name one key concept in Marxist IR theory.

A

Imperialism

Powerful states use imperialism to control markets, resources, and labor.

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21
Q

Fill in the blanks:

According to Marxists, international relations are shaped by the interests of the ______ ______ class.

A

dominant capitalist

This class uses global structures to maintain its wealth and influence.

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22
Q

Why do feminist scholars criticize traditional IR theories?

A

They marginalize women and overlook how gender affects power relations and state behavior.

Feminist IR seeks to make global politics more inclusive and equitable.

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23
Q

What was the Treaty of Westphalia (1648) and why is it significant?

A

A series of peace treaties that ended the Thirty Years’ War and established the modern state system based on sovereignty and non-interference.

It laid the foundation for how states interact today—independent and equal in theory.

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24
Q

Why is the Concert of Europe (1815-1914) considered an early form of international cooperation?

A

It helped maintain balance of power and prevented major wars through diplomatic conferences among European powers.

This system aimed at collective stability rather than domination.

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25
# True or False: The **League of Nations** was created after World War II.
False ## Footnote It was created after World War I to promote collective security, but failed to prevent WW II.
26
# Fill in the blank: The League of Nations was the **first major attempt** at \_\_\_\_\_\_ security.
collective ## Footnote The idea was that states would act together to **stop aggression**.
27
# Fill in the blanks: The **international system** after World War II was largely shaped by the rivalry between the \_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_ and the \_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_.
United States; Soviet Union ## Footnote This **Cold War** rivalry shaped military alliances and **global ideologies** for decades.
28
Why did the collapse of the **USSR in 1991** reshape global politics?
It ended the **bipolar world order**, left the US as a hegemon, and accelerated **globalization**. ## Footnote The shift allowed liberal democracy and capitalism to spread rapidly.
29
What was **decolonization** and when did it occur?
A **wave of independence movements** from 1945 to the 1970s that ended European colonial rule in Africa and Asia. ## Footnote Many new states challenged the Western-dominated system.
30
# Fill in the blank: The rise of \_\_\_\_\_\_ is shifting the **global balance** of power in the 21st century.
China ## Footnote Along with other emerging powers like India and Brazil, China is challenging **US dominance**.
31
Why did **World War I** disrupt the **balance of power** in Europe?
It led to the **collapse of empires**, millions of deaths, and the failure of pre-war diplomacy to maintain peace. ## Footnote The war marked the end of the **Concert of Europe** and set the stage for WWII.
32
# Fill in the blanks: Countries like the U.S., China, and Russia are considered \_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_ due to their global influence.
great powers ## Footnote These powers shape security, economy, and diplomacy **worldwide**.
33
Why are **middle powers** important in international relations?
They act as **mediators**, promote **multilateralism**, and support global governance without dominating. ## Footnote Examples include Canada, South Korea, and Australia.
34
# True or False: Small states have no real **influence** in international politics.
False ## Footnote Even small states like Bhutan or Luxembourg can exert influence via diplomacy or international law.
35
What are **non-state** actors?
Entities that participate in **international affairs without being states**, including NGOs, corporations, and terrorist groups. ## Footnote Their influence has grown in a globalized world.
36
Name a **multinational corporation** that influences global politics.
Apple, ExxonMobil, or Google ## Footnote These firms influence policy via **lobbying and investment**.
37
# Fill in the blank: Groups like **Amnesty International and Greenpeace** are examples of \_\_\_\_\_\_.
NGOs ## Footnote NGOs advocate for causes and **shape international norms**.
38
What defines a **terrorist group** in international relations?
A **non-state actor** that uses **violence or the threat of violence** to achieve political, religious, or ideological aims. ## Footnote Examples include Al-Qaeda and ISIS.
39
Why are **individual actors** also relevant in IR?
**Diplomats, activists**, and thought **leaders** can shape norms and policies through influence, negotiation, or advocacy. ## Footnote Think of figures like Kofi Annan or Malala Yousafzai.
40
# Fill in the blanks: **Non-state actors** are especially powerful in areas like \_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_ and \_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_.
human rights; economic policy ## Footnote Their roles increase as **globalization deepens**.
41
What is the **United Nations**? | (UN)
A global intergovernmental organization promoting **peace, security, and cooperation** among 193 member states. ## Footnote Created after WWII to prevent global conflict.
42
What is a **supranational** institution?
An entity that has **legal authority** above national governments in certain areas. ## Footnote The **European Commission** is one example.
43
# Fill in the blanks: The most **powerful body** within the UN is the \_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_.
Security Council ## Footnote It can authorize **military force and impose sanctions**.
44
Why is the **UN General Assembly** unique?
All states have **equal voting power**, promoting inclusive deliberation on global issues. ## Footnote It's a space for consensus and soft power.
45
Which **UN agency** focuses on **children's welfare**?
UNICEF ## Footnote Others include WHO (health) and UNHCR (refugees).
46
What is the role of the **International Monetary Fund**? | (IMF)
Provides **short-term loans** and advice to help countries manage balance of payments issues. ## Footnote Focuses on **financial crises** and currency stability.
47
What does the **World Bank** do?
Offers **long-term development loans** for infrastructure, education, and health in lower-income nations. ## Footnote Its mission is to reduce poverty.
48
# Fill in the blank: The World Trade Organization (WTO) aims to reduce \_\_\_\_\_\_ to trade and promote fair competition.
barriers ## Footnote It facilitates **trade negotiations** and resolves disputes.
49
Why is the **International Criminal Court** significant? | (ICC)
It **holds individuals accountable** for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. ## Footnote Only steps in when national courts fail.
50
# True or False: The ICC can **prosecute** states.
False ## Footnote It only prosecutes **individuals, not countries**.
51
# Fill in the blanks: The \_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_ is a regional body with a **single market** and shared currency.
European Union ## Footnote The euro and **EU institutions** make it highly integrated.
52
What is a **regional organization**?
A group of **neighboring states** that cooperate on regional issues like trade, security, or development. ## Footnote Examples include the EU, AU, ASEAN, OAS.
53
Name one **regional organization** in Latin America.
Organization of American States | (OAS) ## Footnote Promotes **democracy, peace, and human rights**.
54
# Fill in the blank: The \_\_\_\_\_\_ is a **regional bloc** in Southeast Asia.
ASEAN ## Footnote Focuses on **economic cooperation** and stability.
55
Why is **NATO** considered both a **regional and military organization**?
It provides **collective defense** for member states in the North Atlantic region. ## Footnote *“An attack on one is an attack on all.”*
56
# True or False: The **African Union** has a military intervention force.
True ## Footnote It can authorize **peacekeeping** missions in Africa.
57
# Fill in the blanks: The \_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_ gives citizens in the EU a **direct voice** in governance.
European Parliament ## Footnote It's elected and works alongside the Council and Commission.
58
What is the purpose of **regional trade** agreements?
To lower tariffs and regulatory barriers between **neighboring countries**. ## Footnote These promote economic growth and interdependence.
59
Name a **regional trade** agreement involving the **U.S**.
USMCA | (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) ## Footnote Replaced **NAFTA and governs North American** trade.
60
Why do **regional organizations** matter in **global politics**?
They increase **regional integration**, promote cooperation, and address shared challenges more effectively. ## Footnote These groups help smaller states amplify their voice.
61
# Define: interstate war
A **military conflict** fought between two or more states, often over territory, resources, or power. ## Footnote Example – Iran-Iraq War.
62
# Define: civil war
An **armed conflict within a single country** between government forces and internal opposition groups. ## Footnote Example – Syrian Civil War.
63
Why are **asymmetric conflicts**significant in **modern warfare**?
They involve a **power imbalance**, where the weaker side uses unconventional tactics like guerrilla warfare or terrorism. ## Footnote Example – US vs Taliban in Afghanistan.
64
What is **peacebuilding**?
Actions aimed at **preventing conflict** and building inclusive, stable societies after violence. ## Footnote Goes beyond peacekeeping.
65
# Fill in the blank: The main tool for **peacefully** resolving conflicts is \_\_\_\_\_\_.
diplomacy ## Footnote Involves **negotiation, mediation, and dialogue**.
66
# Define: bilateral diplomacy
**Direct negotiation** between two states to resolve issues or build relations. ## Footnote Examples include trade agreements or peace treaties.
67
# Define: Multilateral diplomacy
Negotiation involving **three or more states**, often through international organizations. ## Footnote Used in UN General Assembly or climate summits.
68
# True or False: **UN peacekeeping** missions are composed solely of UN personnel.
False ## Footnote Troops are provided by **UN member states**.
69
# Fill in the blank: UN peacekeeping missions like \_\_\_\_\_\_ in Lebanon help monitor ceasefires and protect civilians.
UNIFIL ## Footnote UN missions assist **post-conflict transitions**.
70
Why are **regional organizations** involved in peacekeeping?
They can act **faster** and more locally to manage conflicts in their regions. ## Footnote Example – African Union missions in Somalia.
71
# Define: arms control
The effort to **regulate or limit weapons**, especially weapons of mass destruction. ## Footnote Includes treaties like the NPT.
72
# Fill in the blanks: The \_\_\_\_\_\_ Non-Proliferation Treaty aims to prevent the spread of **nuclear weapons**.
Nuclear ## Footnote Known as the NPT, signed in 1968.
73
# Define: disarmament
The process of **reducing or eliminating military weapons** through agreements or treaties. ## Footnote Different from arms control, which may only limit use.
74
Name one agreement focused on **nuclear arms reduction**.
New START ## Footnote Treaty between the U.S. and Russia to limit strategic warheads.
75
# Define: humanitarian assistance
**Aid provided to people affected by conflicts**, disasters, or crises, including food, shelter, and medicine. ## Footnote Often coordinated by UNHCR or Red Cross.
76
# True or False: Only states can deliver **humanitarian aid** in conflict zones.
False ## Footnote NGOs like ICRC play key roles in **emergency responses**.
77
# Define: climate finance
Funding provided to help developing countries **reduce emissions** and adapt to climate change. ## Footnote Includes public and private sources.
78
# Describe: 3 effects of **globalization** on the **environment**.
1. **Resource Depletion**: Increased consumption and production put pressure on natural resources. 2. **Climate Change**: Industrialization and energy consumption contributed to climate change. 3. **Pollution and Waste**: Industrial activities and consumerism generated pollution and waste. ## Footnote Globalization **amplifies environmental impacts** as economies become interconnected and industrial practices expand globally.
79
# Fill in the blanks: The 2015 \_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_ aims to limit **global warming** to well below 2°C.
Paris agreement ## Footnote Signed by nearly **every country**.
80
Why is **international cooperation** essential to fight **climate change**?
Because **greenhouse gas emissions cross borders**, and global impacts affect all countries. ## Footnote No country can solve it alone.
81
# True or False: Only developed countries have responsibilities under the **Paris Agreement**.
False ## Footnote All parties **must take action**, though responsibilities differ.
82
What are the **Sustainable Development Goals**? | (SDGs)
A set of **17 global goals** aimed at ending poverty, protecting the planet, and ensuring prosperity for all. ## Footnote Adopted by UN in 2015.
83
Name one major **environmental issue** besides climate change.
Biodiversity loss ## Footnote Others include **deforestation** and water scarcity.
84
What is the role of the **World Health Organization**? | (WHO)
To coordinate **global health efforts**, provide guidance, and help countries respond to public health threats. ## Footnote Founded in 1948.
85
# Fill in the blank: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed **inequalities in access** to \_\_\_\_\_\_ and healthcare.
vaccines ## Footnote **Low-income** countries faced major delays.
86
Why are **global health crises** a challenge for international relations?
They require **rapid coordination** and expose weaknesses in global solidarity. ## Footnote Also affect economics and security.
87
What is the **UN Global Counter-Terrorism** strategy?
A 2006 UN framework to **prevent and combat terrorism** through cooperation and human rights protection. ## Footnote Includes 4 pillars.
88
# True or False: Countering violent extremism only requires **military action**.
False ## Footnote Also requires tackling **root causes** like marginalization.
89
# Fill in the blank: Efforts to prevent **radicalization** often target \_\_\_\_\_\_, lack of education, and injustice.
poverty ## Footnote These are **push factors**.
90
What is the **Global Compact** on refugees?
A 2018 UN agreement to improve international response to refugee crises through **burden-sharing**. ## Footnote **Non-binding** but widely endorsed.
91
# Fill in the blank: The \_\_\_\_\_\_ is the main **agency** for protecting and **assisting refugees**.
UNHCR ## Footnote Also helps asylum seekers and stateless persons.
92
Mention one cause of global **migration crises**.
Conflict ## Footnote Other causes include **persecution and economic hardship**.
93
What is **cybersecurity** in international relations?
The protection of digital systems and information from espionage, sabotage, and attacks. ## Footnote Includes both state and non-state actors.
94
# True or False: **International rules** on cyberspace are well established.
False ## Footnote There is no **universal consensus** yet.
95
Why is **digital privacy** a contentious issue among states?
Different countries have conflicting views on **surveillance, data protection, and internet freedom**. ## Footnote Ex: US vs EU data laws.
96
# Define: multipolarity
A global system where **multiple states** share significant power, rather than one dominant superpower. ## Footnote A challenge to US-led order.
97
# Fill in the blank: **Technologies** like AI and \_\_\_\_\_\_ are reshaping international relations.
biotechnology ## Footnote Also includes **quantum computing**.
98
Why do **emerging technologies** need global governance?
To ensure **ethical use**, prevent misuse, and promote equity. ## Footnote Tech outpaces regulation.
99
Mention one **major demographic** trend affecting global politics.
Urbanization ## Footnote Also aging, population growth (esp. in Africa).
100
# True or False: **Demographic changes** only affect domestic policies.
False ## Footnote They impact migration, labor markets, and services.
101
# Fill in the blanks: **Environmental degradation** threatens \_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_ goods like clean air and biodiversity.
global public ## Footnote Requires collective action.
102
# Define: economic interdependence
The condition where states are **mutually reliant on each other for trade**, investment, and growth. ## Footnote Increases both opportunity and risk.
103
Name one **form of conflict** that reflects current global challenges.
cyber attacks ## Footnote Others include civil wars, terrorism, hybrid warfare.
104
What is a **multi-stakeholder** initiative?
A **partnership** that includes governments, NGOs, private sector, and civil society to address global problems. ## Footnote Example: global fund
105
Why are **public-private partnerships** important in global governance?
They combine **resources and expertise** to tackle complex challenges. ## Footnote Often faster and more flexible than intergovernmental action.
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