Author Question: What is the main concern of constructivism? How does it seek to expand on the theories of realism ... (Read 113 times)

roselinechinyere27m · **on:** Sep 3, 2018

What is the main concern of constructivism? How does it seek to expand on the theories of realism and liberalism? How useful is constructivism for understanding international phenomena?

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Define the theories of realism, liberalism, and constructivism. Which of these theories do you think best describes international relations and world politics. Why?

What will be an ideal response?

courtney_bruh · **Reply #1 on:** Sep 3, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Constructivism is a paradigm based on the premise that world politics is a function of
the ways that states construct and then accept images of reality and later respond to
the meanings given to power politics; as consensual definitions change, it is possible
for either conflictual or cooperative practices to evolve.

Answer to Question 2

Realism is a paradigm based on the premise that world politics is essentially and
unchangeably a struggle among self-interested states for power and position under
anarchy, with each competing state pursuing its own national interests. Liberalism is
a paradigm predicated on the hope that the application of reason and universal ethics
to international relations can lead to a more orderly, just, and cooperative world;
liberalism assumes that anarchy and war can be policed by institutional reforms that
empower international organization and law. Constructivism is a paradigm based on
the premise that world politics is a function of the ways that states construct and then
accept images of reality and later respond to the meanings given to power politics; as
consensual definitions change, it is possible for either conflictual or cooperative
practices to evolve.