Question 1

Radical theory argues that individual actions are largely determined by

Accepted Answer

Radical theory asserts that individual actions are primarily influenced by economic class. The theory argues that individuals are not solely responsible for their actions but are shaped by their economic circumstances and the systems of power that exist within society. This suggests that individuals are limited in their ability to make choices and decisions, as they are constrained by their social and economic position.

Question 2

Today's key issues can be easily understood without any reference to history.

Accepted Answer

While it is possible to grasp some current issues without historical context, understanding the root causes and previous events that have shaped these issues is often essential to fully comprehending them.

Question 3

Important questions of international relations today can be answered with exclusive reliance on the behavioralist approach.

Accepted Answer

The behavioralist approach, while useful in understanding certain aspects of international relations, cannot be the exclusive means of answering important questions in the field. Other approaches, such as constructivism and post-structuralism, also contribute valuable insights to the study of international relations.

Question 4

Which of the following actors do not participate in international politics?

Accepted Answer

Locally focused business associations do not typically participate in international politics as their primary focus is on local business issues and advocacy. States, international organizations, individuals, and nongovernmental organizations are all potential actors in international politics.

Question 5

The theory most focused on the ideas that human nature is good is

Accepted Answer

The theory that most focuses on the idea that human nature is good is liberalism. Liberalism is based on the belief in individual freedom, equality, and the capacity of human beings to make rational choices. This belief in human rationality is rooted in the notion that humans are fundamentally good and capable of progress.

Question 6

Behavioralists have proven all of their hypotheses on the causes of war.

Accepted Answer

While behavioralists have made significant contributions to our understanding of the causes of war, no one theory or approach can fully explain the complex phenomenon of war. Furthermore, the study of war is ongoing and continually evolving, so it is unlikely that any one theory could ever be considered a complete and comprehensive explanation.

Question 7

Radical theory is rooted in economics.

Accepted Answer

Radical theory is a social and political ideology that challenges traditional beliefs and power structures in society. It is often rooted in Marxist economics, which emphasizes the struggle between the working class and the bourgeoisie. Therefore, radical theory is closely linked to economics.

Question 8

Realism posits that ________ determines the structure of the international system.

Accepted Answer

Realism is a theory of international relations that contends that the primary determinant of the structure of the international system is the distribution of power among states. Realists argue that states are the key actors in international relations, and that their behavior is shaped by their pursuit of power and security in a world of anarchy (i.e. absence of a world government). Therefore, the balance of power among states is central to understanding the dynamics of international politics.

Question 9

Understanding behavior between states is the sole focus of the study of international relations.

Accepted Answer

While behavior between states is an important aspect of international relations, the discipline also examines non-state actors, intergovernmental organizations, international law, and a range of global issues and challenges beyond state behavior.

Question 10

One reason political scientists develop theories is to

Accepted Answer

Political scientists develop theories to understand the causes and patterns of political events and phenomena. Theories help to provide explanations for why certain events occur, which can inform policymaking and facilitate understanding of political systems. The other options are not primary objectives of theory development in political science.

Question 11

If only we had looked at the analogy to the Vietnam War, we would have been able to have the "correct" policy prescription to know how to act in the 2003 Iraq War because these wars shared all the exact same characteristics.

Accepted Answer

While there may be some similarities between the Vietnam War and the 2003 Iraq War, it is incorrect to assume that they share all exact same characteristics. Each conflict has its own unique historical, political, and social contexts, and it is important to carefully analyze each situation individually in order to develop an appropriate policy approach.

Question 12

At least two key theories in international relations have origins embedded in the work of philosophers.

Accepted Answer

Two key theories in international relations that have origins embedded in the work of philosophers are realism (which has roots in the works of Thucydides and Machiavelli) and liberalism (which has roots in the works of John Locke and Immanuel Kant).

Question 13

The theory most focused on the idea that states define their interests in terms of power is

Accepted Answer

Realism is the theory that states focus on the acquisition and preservation of power as their primary interest. Realists argue that states operate in an anarchical international system and therefore must rely on their own capabilities (i.e. military, economic, diplomatic) to survive and advance their interests. This focus on power and self-help distinguishes realism from other international relations theories such as liberalism, which emphasizes cooperation and interdependence among states.

Question 14

The postmodern approach to international relations calls for an inclusion of traditionally "voiceless" actors such as the women of the Greenham Common Peace Camp.

Accepted Answer

The postmodern approach to international relations emphasizes the importance of considering the perspectives and experiences of traditionally marginalized or underrepresented actors, including women, ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other groups that have historically been excluded from mainstream political discourse. This approach recognizes that these actors can have important insights into international issues and can play an active role in shaping global politics. As such, the inclusion of women from the Greenham Common Peace Camp in discussions of international relations would be consistent with a postmodern approach.

Question 15

Which of the following is True of the international system today?

Accepted Answer

The number of wars, including both interstate and civil wars, has generally declined since the end of the Cold War, with a notable decrease in large-scale interstate conflicts.

Question 16

Several of the more prominent theoretical approaches used to study international relations are

Accepted Answer

The most commonly used theoretical approaches to study international relations are realism, liberalism, and radical theory. Realism focuses on state interests and power struggles in the international system, liberalism emphasizes cooperation and interdependence among states, and radical theory examines the role of economic and social structures in shaping international relations.

Question 17

International relations

Accepted Answer

International relations is the study of the behavior and interaction of various actors, including states, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and individuals, in the international system. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws on concepts from political science, history, anthropology, economics, sociology, and other disciplines.

Question 18

All of the following actors affect international relations in important ways: heads of state, central governments, nongovernmental organizations, international organizations, and individuals.

Accepted Answer

All of these actors play important roles in shaping international relations, whether through diplomatic negotiations, the actions of international institutions, the advocacy of NGOs, or the actions of individuals in shaping public opinion or engaging in cross-cultural communication.

Question 19

Realist and liberal theories argue that the key structures in the international system are material.

Accepted Answer

Realist and liberal theories both argue that material factors such as military power, economic resources, and geographic location are the key structures that shape the international system. Realists view these factors as the primary drivers of state behavior and competition for power in the international arena, while liberals see them as important factors in determining cooperation and the potential for mutual gains through interdependence. In both cases, material structures are seen as central to understanding the dynamics of international relations.

Question 20

Which theory posits that states generally cooperate?

Accepted Answer

Liberalism posits that states generally cooperate, emphasizing the role of international institutions, trade, and democracy in fostering cooperation among states.

Quiz 1: Approaches to International Relations