analyse the different explanations which realism and liberalism provide for recent developments in global politics since 2000.
Question
Analyse the different explanations which realism and liberalism provide for recent developments in global politics since 2000.
Solution
Realism and Liberalism are two key theories in the field of International Relations that provide different explanations for the developments in global politics since 2000.
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Realism: Realists view international politics as a struggle for power among self-interested states. They believe that states are the primary actors in international politics, and that their actions are driven by national interests, particularly security and power.
Since 2000, realists would point to the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003 as a clear example of a powerful state acting in its own self-interest. They would also highlight the rise of China as a global power, and the resulting power struggles with the U.S., as evidence of the ongoing relevance of realism. The ongoing conflicts in Syria and Yemen, as well as the annexation of Crimea by Russia, can also be explained by realism as they involve power struggles among states.
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Liberalism: Liberals, on the other hand, believe that international relations are not only about power politics among states but also about cooperation and interdependence. They emphasize the role of international institutions, non-state actors, and global norms in shaping state behavior.
From a liberal perspective, the expansion of the European Union, the establishment of the International Criminal Court, and the adoption of the Paris Agreement on climate change are all significant developments since 2000. These events highlight the importance of international cooperation and the role of international institutions. The rise of non-state actors, such as multinational corporations and international non-governmental organizations, is also a key development that liberals would point to.
In conclusion, while realism focuses on power politics and self-interest, liberalism highlights the importance of cooperation, international institutions, and non-state actors. Both theories provide valuable insights into the developments in global politics since 2000, but they emphasize different aspects of these developments.
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