IR Chapter 1

Core Theory Concepts State “Organized political entity with a permanent population, a well-defined territory, and a government; in everyday language, often used as synonymous with nation-state” Sovereignty A characteristic of the government of a “state” that recognizes no higher authority above the government of that state.

Core Theory Concepts System (AKA International System) “a set of interconnected parts that function as a unitary whole. In world politics, the parts consist primarily of states that interact on a regular basis.” Anarchy: absence of a superior authority to make and enforce rules that bind states.

Core Theory Concepts Nation: A group of people who feel a common identity due to a shared language, culture, and/or history. Nation-state: “A specific geographic area containing a sovereign polity whose population identifies with that polity” as their highest political identity and loyalty.

Core Theory Concepts Nonstate Actors All groups other than states that are active in the international system. They include international organizations of states like the United Nations, NATO, or the WTO. They include non-government organizations that operate in the international environment such as Amnesty International, Doctors without Borders, and the International Red Cross They also include multinational corporations

Core Theory Concepts Levels of Analysis: International political phenomena can be assessed from at least three perspectives. Individual Level of Analysis State Level of Analysis International System Level

Levels of Analysis Cold War Page 18 Individual? State System? General peace & Stability VS Great Power War? Individual State System