Carter WashU Politics Midterm: Study Guide 2024

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Preparation for the Carter WashU international politics midterm requires a multifaceted approach. Students at Washington University in St. Louis face a comprehensive examination of international relations concepts. Thorough review of course materials provided by the Political Science Department is crucial for success. Furthermore, familiarity with key figures such as Professor Carter, the instructor, is advantageous for understanding the exam’s focus. This study guide provides resources and strategies designed to assist students in effectively preparing for the Carter WashU international politics midterm.

Navigating the World of International Relations

International Relations (IR) is a multifaceted field that seeks to understand the interactions between states, international organizations, non-governmental entities, and individuals on the global stage.

It delves into the complexities of power, conflict, cooperation, and interdependence, offering a framework for analyzing the forces that shape our world.

Defining the Scope and Significance of International Relations

The scope of IR is vast, encompassing a wide range of issues from war and peace to trade and development, human rights, and environmental sustainability.

Its significance lies in its ability to provide insights into the causes and consequences of global events, helping policymakers, scholars, and citizens make sense of an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

IR is not simply about describing what happens; it’s about explaining why it happens, and what the implications are for the future.

Key Actors and Their Interactions

At the heart of IR lies the concept of the state, traditionally considered the primary actor in international politics.

States possess sovereignty, the authority to govern themselves without external interference, and they pursue their interests through a variety of means, including diplomacy, economic statecraft, and military force.

However, the international landscape is populated by a multitude of other actors, each with its own agenda and capabilities.

International Organizations (IOs), such as the United Nations (UN) and the World Trade Organization (WTO), play a crucial role in setting norms, facilitating cooperation, and addressing global challenges.

Multinational Corporations (MNCs) exert significant economic influence, shaping trade patterns, investment flows, and technological innovation.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) advocate for various causes, from human rights and environmental protection to poverty reduction and humanitarian assistance.

Even individuals can play a significant role in international affairs, whether as activists, diplomats, or leaders.

The interactions between these actors are complex and often unpredictable, shaped by factors such as power dynamics, ideological differences, and shared interests.

Understanding these interactions is essential for comprehending the dynamics of the international system and for addressing the challenges that confront us all.

Core Theories in International Relations: Understanding Different Perspectives

Navigating the complex landscape of international relations requires a robust toolkit of analytical frameworks. These theoretical lenses provide distinct perspectives on state behavior, global challenges, and the intricate dynamics of power that shape our world. By examining the core tenets, key thinkers, and real-world applications of each theory, we gain a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of international politics.

Realism and Neorealism: Power Politics in a World of Anarchy

Realism, a dominant school of thought in IR, posits that the international system is inherently anarchic, meaning there is no overarching authority to enforce rules and maintain order. In this self-help environment, states are the primary actors, driven by a fundamental pursuit of power to ensure their survival and security.

Sovereignty, the principle of supreme authority within a defined territory, further reinforces this state-centric view.

Key Tenets of Realism

• State as Primary Actor: Realists emphasize the central role of the state as a rational actor pursuing its national interests.
• Anarchy and Self-Help: The absence of a global government compels states to rely on their own resources for security.
• Power Politics: International relations is fundamentally a struggle for power among states.
• Sovereignty: States possess supreme authority within their borders, free from external interference.

Kenneth Waltz and Neorealism

Neorealism, also known as structural realism, builds upon classical realism by focusing on the structure of the international system as the primary determinant of state behavior. Kenneth Waltz, a prominent neorealist scholar, argued that the distribution of power among states shapes the dynamics of international politics.

Relevance to Contemporary Issues

Realism provides a valuable framework for understanding contemporary issues such as great power competition between the United States and China, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the persistent security dilemmas that plague many regions of the world. The emphasis on power, security, and national interest remains highly relevant in a world characterized by uncertainty and competition.

Liberalism and Neoliberal Institutionalism: Cooperation and Interdependence

In contrast to realism’s emphasis on conflict and competition, liberalism highlights the potential for cooperation and interdependence in international relations. Liberal theorists argue that states are not the only important actors, and that international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and individuals also play a significant role in shaping global politics.

Key Tenets of Liberalism

• Cooperation: States can and do cooperate to achieve common goals.
• Interdependence: Economic, social, and environmental interconnectedness creates incentives for cooperation.
• International Organizations: IOs provide forums for states to coordinate their policies and address shared challenges.
• Role of Institutions: International institutions promote cooperation by establishing rules, norms, and procedures.

Key Thinkers and Concepts

Immanuel Kant’s concept of "perpetual peace" through international law and institutions laid the groundwork for liberal thought. Robert Keohane’s work on neoliberal institutionalism emphasized the role of institutions in mitigating anarchy and facilitating cooperation.

Relevance to Contemporary Issues

Liberalism informs our understanding of the European Union (EU), a complex system of institutions and agreements that has fostered unprecedented levels of cooperation among its member states. Trade agreements, such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), and global governance initiatives aimed at addressing climate change and other transnational challenges also reflect liberal principles.

Constructivism: The Power of Ideas and Identities

Constructivism offers a different perspective by emphasizing the role of ideas, norms, and identities in shaping international relations. Unlike realists and liberals, constructivists argue that the international system is not simply a material reality, but also a social construct.

Key Tenets of Constructivism

• Ideas and Norms: Shared beliefs and values influence state behavior and international politics.
• Identities: States’ perceptions of themselves and others shape their interests and interactions.
• Social Construction of Reality: The international system is not fixed but is constantly being shaped by social interactions.

Alexander Wendt and "Anarchy is What States Make of It"

Alexander Wendt, a prominent constructivist scholar, famously argued that "anarchy is what states make of it." This suggests that the nature of international relations is not predetermined but is shaped by the ways in which states interact with and perceive one another.

Relevance to Contemporary Issues

Constructivism sheds light on the evolving norms of intervention in cases of humanitarian crises, the spread of democracy as a globally valued ideal, and the growing importance of human rights in international law and politics.

Marxism, Dependency Theory, and World-Systems Theory: Global Inequality and Economic Structures

These critical theories offer a distinct perspective by focusing on the role of economic structures and class relations in shaping international relations. They emphasize the global inequalities inherent in the capitalist system and argue that these inequalities drive conflict and exploitation.

Key Tenets

• Class Struggle: International relations is shaped by the conflict between the capitalist class and the working class.
• Exploitation: The capitalist system inherently exploits workers and resources in the developing world.
• Global Inequality: The international system is characterized by vast disparities in wealth and power between core and periphery states.

Nation-States and Economic Factors

These theories analyze how nation-states are shaped by economic factors, arguing that the state often serves the interests of the dominant economic class.

Relevance to Contemporary Issues

Marxism, dependency theory, and world-systems theory provide a critical lens for understanding North-South relations, the dynamics of global capitalism, and the persistent challenges of economic development in the developing world. They also highlight the role of multinational corporations and international financial institutions in perpetuating global inequalities.

Key Actors in International Relations: From States to Individuals

Navigating the complex tapestry of international relations requires an understanding of the diverse entities that exert influence on the global stage. This section identifies and examines the various actors that shape international relations.

From nation-states and international organizations to multinational corporations and individuals, we will explore their roles, influence, and interactions in the global arena.

Nation-States: The Cornerstone of International Relations

Nation-states, for centuries, have been the primary actors in international relations. They possess distinct attributes, pursue varied interests, and engage in a range of behaviors that collectively shape the global order.

The modern state system, built upon the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, grants states the exclusive right to govern their internal affairs and to represent their populations on the international stage.

State interests, often defined in terms of security, economic prosperity, and the projection of national values, guide their foreign policy decisions.

These interests drive states to cooperate, compete, and, at times, even conflict with one another. Understanding the motivations and capabilities of individual states is therefore essential for comprehending the broader dynamics of international relations.

Sovereignty: A Contested Principle

The concept of sovereignty is central to the functioning of the international system. It implies that states are autonomous and not subject to external interference in their internal affairs.

However, sovereignty is not absolute.

Globalization, the rise of international norms, and the increasing interconnectedness of the world have challenged traditional notions of state sovereignty.

International agreements, human rights obligations, and humanitarian interventions all place limits on what states can legitimately do within their own borders.

The tension between state sovereignty and the demands of global governance remains a critical issue in contemporary international relations.

International Organizations: Facilitating Cooperation and Governance

International Organizations (IOs) play an increasingly significant role in addressing global challenges and promoting cooperation among states.

These organizations can be categorized in various ways, based on their membership, scope, and functions.

Types of International Organizations

The United Nations (UN) stands as the preeminent global organization, with near-universal membership and a broad mandate encompassing peace and security, development, and human rights.

Regional organizations, such as the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU), focus on promoting cooperation and integration within specific geographic areas.

Functional IOs, like the World Trade Organization (WTO), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank, address specific issues related to trade, finance, and development.

Role and Effectiveness of IOs

IOs serve a variety of functions, including facilitating communication and negotiation among states, setting international norms and standards, providing technical assistance and development aid, and, in some cases, even deploying peacekeeping forces.

However, the effectiveness of IOs is often constrained by their dependence on member states for funding, support, and compliance.

IOs lack the coercive power of states and must rely on persuasion, incentives, and the mobilization of international public opinion to achieve their goals.

The impact of IOs on global governance is therefore complex and contested.

Other Actors: Expanding the Scope of International Relations

Beyond states and IOs, a range of other actors exert influence on international relations. These include multinational corporations (MNCs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and even individuals.

Multinational Corporations (MNCs)

MNCs are powerful economic actors that operate across national borders.

They invest in foreign countries, produce and sell goods and services in multiple markets, and transfer technology and expertise around the world.

MNCs can have a significant impact on the economies of host countries, both positive and negative. They can create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and transfer valuable skills and technologies.

However, they can also exploit labor, damage the environment, and exert undue influence on government policies. The relationship between MNCs and states is often complex and characterized by both cooperation and tension.

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

NGOs are non-profit organizations that operate independently of governments.

They address a wide range of issues, including human rights, environmental protection, humanitarian assistance, and development.

NGOs play a crucial role in monitoring state behavior, advocating for policy changes, and providing services to vulnerable populations.

They often work in partnership with IOs and states, but they can also challenge their policies and practices.

The influence of NGOs on international relations has grown significantly in recent decades.

Individuals

Individuals can also play a significant role in international affairs.

Political leaders, diplomats, activists, and even ordinary citizens can shape global events.

The power of ideas, the force of moral persuasion, and the ability to mobilize public opinion can all be wielded by individuals to influence state behavior and promote international cooperation.

The rise of social media and digital technologies has further empowered individuals to participate in international discussions and to advocate for their interests on the global stage.

Key Concepts and Issues: Navigating the Complexities of Global Affairs

Navigating the complex tapestry of international relations requires an understanding of the diverse entities that exert influence on the global stage. This section explores the core concepts and pressing issues that dominate the study of international relations.

From security and political economy to international law and human rights, we’ll delve into the complexities of these issues and their impact on the global landscape.

Security Studies: Evolving Definitions of Threat

Security, traditionally defined, centered on the state and its ability to defend its territory from external military threats. This perspective, still relevant today, informs much of the discourse surrounding defense budgets, alliance structures, and geopolitical strategy.

However, the scope of security studies has broadened considerably in recent decades.

Traditional Security: Hard Power and Deterrence

The traditional understanding of security emphasizes military strength as the primary guarantor of a state’s survival.

Deterrence theory, a cornerstone of this perspective, posits that a state can prevent aggression by maintaining a credible threat of retaliation. Alliances, such as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), are formed to pool resources and create a collective defense against potential adversaries.

Non-Traditional Security: Beyond Military Threats

The rise of non-traditional security threats has challenged the state-centric view of security. Environmental degradation, pandemics, and cyber warfare pose significant risks to human well-being and state stability.

These threats often transcend national borders, requiring international cooperation and innovative solutions. Addressing climate change, for example, demands collective action to reduce emissions and mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events.

Similarly, cyber warfare poses a complex challenge, as states and non-state actors develop increasingly sophisticated capabilities to disrupt critical infrastructure and steal sensitive information.

International Political Economy (IPE): The Interplay of Politics and Economics

International Political Economy (IPE) examines the complex interplay between political and economic forces in the global arena. It analyzes how states, markets, and societies interact to shape the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services across borders.

Trade, Finance, and Development: Pillars of the Global Economy

Trade is a crucial engine of economic growth, allowing states to specialize in the production of goods and services in which they have a comparative advantage. However, trade relationships can also be a source of conflict, as states compete for market share and seek to protect domestic industries.

International finance plays a critical role in facilitating trade and investment. Capital flows across borders can boost economic growth, but they can also create instability if not managed effectively.

Development is a central concern of IPE, as states seek to improve the living standards of their citizens and reduce poverty. Development strategies often involve a mix of domestic policies and international assistance.

Globalization: Opportunities and Challenges

Globalization, characterized by the increasing interconnectedness of states, markets, and societies, has profoundly reshaped the global economy. While globalization has created new opportunities for economic growth and development, it has also generated challenges.

These include increased inequality, job displacement, and environmental degradation. The benefits and costs of globalization are often unevenly distributed, leading to political tensions and social unrest.

International Law: Order in Anarchy?

International law seeks to establish a framework of rules and norms to govern the behavior of states and other actors in the international system. Although often described as operating in an "anarchic" international system, international law plays a crucial role in promoting peace, security, and cooperation.

Sources of International Law: Treaties, Custom, and Principles

Treaties are formal agreements between states that are binding under international law. They cover a wide range of issues, from trade and investment to human rights and environmental protection.

Customary international law arises from the consistent practice of states, accompanied by a belief that such practice is legally required. This form of law evolves over time as states engage with each other.

General principles of law recognized by civilized nations are also a source of international law. These principles provide a foundation for legal reasoning and interpretation.

Role and Enforcement: Courts, Tribunals, and Diplomacy

International courts and tribunals, such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the International Criminal Court (ICC), play a role in adjudicating disputes between states and prosecuting individuals for serious crimes.

However, the enforcement of international law remains a challenge. States are ultimately responsible for complying with their obligations, and the international community relies on a mix of diplomacy, sanctions, and other measures to ensure compliance.

Human Rights: Universal Values in a Diverse World

Human rights are fundamental rights and freedoms inherent to all individuals, regardless of race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion, or any other status. The promotion and protection of human rights is a central concern of international relations.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights: A Foundational Document

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted by the United Nations in 1948, is a landmark document that articulates a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations. It proclaims a wide range of civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.

International Human Rights Law: From Declarations to Treaties

International human rights law has evolved significantly since the adoption of the UDHR. A number of international treaties, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), have codified human rights obligations.

These treaties create legally binding obligations for states that have ratified them.

Foreign Policy Analysis: Understanding State Behavior

Foreign policy analysis seeks to understand how and why states make decisions in the international arena. It examines the factors that influence a state’s foreign policy choices, including its domestic politics, its strategic environment, and the personalities of its leaders.

The Decision-Making Process: Models and Biases

Several models have been developed to explain the foreign policy decision-making process. The rational actor model assumes that states act rationally to maximize their interests.

The bureaucratic politics model emphasizes the role of bureaucratic infighting and competing interests in shaping foreign policy. Cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias and groupthink, can also distort decision-making.

Tools of Statecraft: Diplomacy, Sanctions, and Intervention

States have a range of tools at their disposal to pursue their foreign policy objectives. Diplomacy, the art of negotiation and communication, is a key instrument of statecraft.

Sanctions, which involve the imposition of economic or political penalties, are often used to pressure states to change their behavior. Intervention, which can range from humanitarian assistance to military force, is a controversial tool that should be used with caution.

Historical Context and Case Studies: Learning from the Past

Navigating the complex tapestry of international relations requires an understanding of the diverse entities that exert influence on the global stage. This section emphasizes the importance of historical context in understanding contemporary international relations. By examining key historical events and figures, we can gain valuable insights into the evolution of global politics. Case studies will be used to illustrate theoretical concepts and analyze specific international events.

The Enduring Influence of Historical Figures

History is replete with individuals whose decisions and actions have profoundly shaped the course of international relations. Studying their legacies offers invaluable lessons for understanding the dynamics of power, diplomacy, and conflict.

Consider, for example, Woodrow Wilson. His vision for a League of Nations, though ultimately unrealized in its original form, laid the groundwork for future international organizations and the pursuit of collective security.

Otto von Bismarck, the "Iron Chancellor" of Prussia, skillfully employed Realpolitik to unify Germany, demonstrating the potent impact of strategic maneuvering and power balancing.

Vladimir Lenin’s revolutionary ideology and his establishment of the Soviet Union ushered in a new era of ideological conflict and altered the global geopolitical landscape for much of the 20th century.

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s leadership during World War II and his advocacy for the United Nations cemented the United States’ role as a global superpower and shaped the post-war international order.

Regional Analyses as Case Studies

Analyzing international relations through a regional lens offers a nuanced understanding of the interplay between global forces and local dynamics. Different regions present unique challenges and opportunities, shaped by their distinct histories, cultures, and political systems.

The European Union (EU), for example, provides a compelling case study in regional integration. It demonstrates the potential for cooperation and the challenges of reconciling national sovereignty with supranational governance.

The Middle East exemplifies the complexities of protracted conflict, the influence of external actors, and the enduring impact of historical grievances.

Sub-Saharan Africa highlights the challenges of development, governance, and the legacy of colonialism in shaping contemporary international relations.

These regional case studies provide valuable insights into the diverse patterns of interaction and the specific factors that shape international relations in different parts of the world.

Examining Specific Events Through Theoretical Lenses

To fully grasp the complexities of international relations, it is essential to analyze specific historical and contemporary events through the lens of different theoretical frameworks.

The Cold War, for instance, can be examined through a Realist perspective, focusing on the balance of power between the United States and the Soviet Union. It can also be viewed through a Liberal lens, highlighting the role of ideology and the importance of international institutions in managing the conflict.

The Rwandan genocide offers a stark reminder of the limitations of international intervention and the challenges of preventing humanitarian crises. It challenges constructivist perspectives, exposing how the social constructions of ethnic identity were exploited to mobilize collective violence.

The rise of China presents a contemporary case study in the shifting balance of power and the challenges of managing great power competition. It can be examined through realist, liberal, and constructivist lenses to understand China’s motivations, strategies, and impact on the international system.

By applying diverse theoretical frameworks to specific events, we can gain a deeper understanding of the underlying dynamics and the complex interplay of factors that shape international relations. This, in turn, allows us to make more informed judgments about current global challenges and the potential pathways to a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Key Locations: Where International Relations Happens

Navigating the complex tapestry of international relations requires an understanding of the diverse entities that exert influence on the global stage. Building on historical context, it’s equally important to recognize that international relations are not abstract concepts confined to textbooks; they unfold in specific geographic locations. These locations serve as hubs for diplomacy, negotiation, and decision-making, shaping the course of global events.

This section highlights key cities and regions where international relations activities frequently occur, providing a tangible connection to the theories and actors discussed.

Washington D.C.: The Seat of American Power

As the capital of the United States, Washington D.C. is a central node in the network of global power. The city houses the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the U.S. government, all of which play critical roles in shaping American foreign policy.

The State Department, located in Foggy Bottom, is the primary agency responsible for U.S. diplomatic efforts, engaging with foreign governments and international organizations. The Pentagon, across the Potomac River in Arlington, Virginia, directs the nation’s military might.

These institutions, along with numerous think tanks and advocacy groups concentrated in the D.C. area, contribute to a vibrant ecosystem of international relations activity.

Foreign embassies dot the landscape, representing the interests of nations around the world and facilitating direct communication with the U.S. government. The decisions made in Washington D.C. reverberate globally, influencing everything from trade agreements to security alliances.

Brussels: The Heart of the European Union

Brussels serves as the de facto capital of the European Union (EU), hosting the headquarters of key EU institutions. The European Commission, responsible for proposing and implementing EU legislation, is based here.

The Council of the European Union, where government ministers from each member state meet to coordinate policies, also convenes in Brussels. The European Parliament holds sessions here, representing the voice of EU citizens.

Brussels is a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, reflecting the diversity of the EU member states. This concentration of political power and bureaucratic expertise makes Brussels a critical center for international relations, particularly in the context of European integration and its impact on the global order.

The presence of NATO headquarters further solidifies Brussels’ role as a key player in international security.

Geneva: A Hub for Multilateral Diplomacy

Geneva, Switzerland, stands as a neutral ground for international cooperation and diplomacy. It hosts the headquarters of numerous international organizations, including the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG).

Many specialized agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the World Trade Organization (WTO), are also located in Geneva.

The city’s long-standing tradition of neutrality and its commitment to multilateralism make it a preferred venue for international negotiations, conferences, and treaty signings.

Geneva also plays a vital role in humanitarian affairs, with organizations like the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) headquartered there. Its status as a center for international law and human rights further underscores its importance in the global arena.

Course Resources: Further Exploration

Navigating the complex tapestry of international relations requires an understanding of the diverse entities that exert influence on the global stage. Building on historical context, it’s equally important to recognize that international relations are not abstract concepts confined to textbooks; understanding requires engaging with further resources. This section provides guidance on where to delve deeper, offering a curated list of resources designed to enhance your knowledge and analytical skills in this multifaceted field.

Academic Journals: Staying Abreast of Current Research

Academic journals are the lifeblood of any scholarly discipline, offering peer-reviewed research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge. In international relations, these journals provide in-depth analyses of current events, theoretical debates, and empirical studies.

• International Organization: Widely regarded as one of the most prestigious journals in the field, it publishes cutting-edge research on international organizations and global governance.

• International Security: This journal focuses on security studies, offering rigorous analyses of military strategy, terrorism, and conflict resolution.

• World Politics: A leading journal that covers a broad range of topics in international relations, including political economy, human rights, and environmental issues.

• Foreign Affairs: While not strictly an academic journal, Foreign Affairs provides insightful analysis and commentary on foreign policy issues from a variety of perspectives.

Relevant Organizations: Connecting Theory and Practice

Numerous organizations are dedicated to studying and shaping international relations. Engaging with their resources can provide valuable insights into the practical dimensions of global affairs.

• Council on Foreign Relations (CFR): An independent, nonpartisan think tank that provides analysis and recommendations on U.S. foreign policy. Its website features articles, reports, and interactive resources.

• International Crisis Group (ICG): This organization works to prevent and resolve deadly conflict. Their website offers detailed reports and analysis on conflict zones around the world.

• United Nations (UN): The UN is a central actor in international relations. Its website provides access to official documents, reports, and information on its various agencies and programs.

• World Bank: The World Bank is a vital resource for economic development. Its website publishes research, data, and reports on global poverty reduction and sustainable development.

WashU Resources: Opportunities at Washington University

For Washington University in St. Louis students, several resources are available to further explore international relations:

• Relevant Course Websites/Canvas Pages: Consult course websites and Canvas pages for syllabi, readings, and supplementary materials. These resources offer structured pathways to learning about specific topics in international relations.

• Professor Lee Carter: Professor Carter provides expert knowledge and guidance in the field. Students are encouraged to attend office hours, participate in class discussions, and seek mentorship from faculty members like Professor Carter.

These resources, alongside others available at WashU, provide a strong foundation for those interested in international affairs.

Alright, future diplomats and policy wonks, that’s the gist of it! Hopefully, this Carter WashU International Politics Midterm: Study Guide 2024 helps you conquer that exam. Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favor as you tackle the Carter WashU international politics midterm!