International Relations

A major IR theory holding that the international system is anarchic, states are the primary actors, and the pursuit of power and national interest drives state behavior. Realists view conflict as an inherent feature of international politics and emphasize military capability and balance of power.

An IR theory arguing that international institutions, economic interdependence, and democratic governance can mitigate conflict and promote cooperation among states. Liberals believe that free trade, international law, and multilateral organizations create mutual benefits that reduce the likelihood of war.

A theoretical approach asserting that the international system is shaped by shared ideas, norms, identities, and social interactions rather than solely by material factors like military power. Constructivists argue that state interests are not fixed but are constructed through social processes.

A concept describing the distribution of power among states in the international system, where no single state is dominant. States form alliances and build military capacity to prevent any one state from achieving hegemony, thereby maintaining systemic stability.

The principle that each state has supreme authority within its territorial boundaries and is legally equal to other states in the international system. Sovereignty underpins the modern state system established by the Peace of Westphalia in 1648 and remains a foundational concept in international law.

A concept coined by Joseph Nye describing the ability of a state to influence others through attraction and persuasion rather than coercion or payment. Soft power arises from a country's culture, political values, and foreign policies when they are seen as legitimate and morally authoritative.

A strategy aimed at preventing an adversary from taking an undesired action by threatening severe consequences, most commonly associated with nuclear weapons policy. Effective deterrence requires credible threats and the demonstrated willingness to follow through on them.

An arrangement in which a group of states agrees that an attack on one is an attack on all, committing to respond collectively to aggression. This concept underpins organizations like NATO and the United Nations Security Council's mandate to maintain international peace and security.

The process of increasing interconnectedness among states and societies through the flow of goods, capital, information, people, and ideas across borders. Globalization has created both opportunities for cooperation and new vulnerabilities, as economic crises, pandemics, and environmental problems spread rapidly across national boundaries.

A situation in which actions taken by a state to increase its own security, such as building up military forces, cause other states to feel less secure and respond with their own military buildup. This dynamic can lead to arms races and escalation even when no state intends aggression.