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2.1 Theories and Change in World Politics - Coggle Diagram
2.1
Theories and Change in World Politics
Role of International Relations Theories
Define relationships between two or more factors in world politics.
Help understand patterns of causality beyond specific, situational cases (Jentleson & Ratner, 2011).
Explain the reasons behind linkages between these factors.
Importance of
Choosing the Right Theory
Each theory offers different causes and policy recommendations
Different theories operate on varying assumptions
Provides distinct foreign policy recommendations based on its assumptions.
Evolution of Theories
The relevance and usefulness of theories rise and fall based on historical periods and global circumstances.
Paradigms change over time when they no longer fit international patterns.
No single theory can consistently explain all international events.
Impact of Theories on Policymaking
Theories are not passive; they actively shape worldviews and influence policy decisions.
Three key functions of theories
for policymakers (Jentleson & Ratner, 2011)
Prescriptive Value
: Provides a conceptual framework for developing strategies and policy responses.
Lesson-Drawing Value
: Enables critical evaluation of past policies, helping policymakers draw conclusions about the success or failure of those policies.
Diagnostic Value
: Helps policymakers assess issues by recognizing patterns and focusing on key causal factors.
Theories as Influences on Worldviews
Theories shape the worldviews of policymakers and influence decisions
Keynes' Quote (1936): Ideas of economists and political philosophers, even when wrong, are powerful in shaping the world. Practical people often unknowingly follow these ideas.
Main Theories
Liberalism
Stresses cooperation, institutions, and promoting democracy.
Constructivism
Highlights the role of ideas, identities, and social constructs in shaping international relations.
Realism
Focuses on power and security, often emphasizing state competition and conflict.
Critiques
(Feminist and Marxist)
Broaden the scope of contemporary international relations theory by focusing on issues of gender, class, and power inequalities.