Chapter 4 PDF

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Summary

chapter 4 notes...

Description

Levels of Analysis -

Can look at international systems at different levels

International System: Realist View -

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The system is anarchic; there is no authority above the state o It constrains actions o It affects the distribution of capabilities States are sovereignty each must look out for its own interests

Realist View #2 -

Realists disagree about the degree of state autonomy in the system o Traditional: states can shape system o Neorealist: states are most constrained by the system

Realism: Dimensions of International System -

The emphasis is on polarity: the number of blocs of states that have power Polarity is important because it influences system management and stability Three types: multipolarity, bipolarity, and hegemony or unipolarity

Norms of Multipolar System -

If any one actor gets too powerful, you have to gang up and constrain them States want to increase their capabilities by acquiring territory, increasing population size, or developing economically Negotiating is better than fighting o Rather fight than lose some of your capabilities o Other states are viewed as potential allies o Needs to serve national interest

Norms of Bipolar System -

Negotiate rather than fight Fight minor wars rather than major ones Fight major wars rather than fail to eliminate rivals Alliances are long term, based on permanent interests o Tight Bipolarity: if you have any international organizations, they were largely ineffective o Loose Bipolarity: international organizations can develop to mediate between the two blocs

Norms of Unipolar System -

The preponderance of power of the unipolar states allows for dominance

Three Liberal Characterizations

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Keohane and Nye, Power and Interdependence: an interdependent system with mutual sensitivities and vulnerabilities; multiple channels connect states Negotiating and coordinating often occur through multilateralism Concept of collective security

Three Liberal Characterization 2 -

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The international system is seen in terms of a specific international order o Key role for institutions o The dominant power limits its own autonomy and makes credible commitments in order to make durable and legitimate rules that ultimately benefit its long- term interests o A liberal international order governs arrangements among states with basic rule principles Neoliberal institutionalists: the international system is anarchic o But there is also the possibility that institutions will be created from self-interest

Constructivism and the International System -

Constructivists argue that: o International outcomes cannot be explained by structures alone o Power and anarchy matter, but their meanings change over time o International structures are socially constructed; neither sovereignty nor valance of power objectively exist...