Published on 25 Nov 2025
Realism: It emphasizes the primacy of self-interest, power, and the pursuit of national security as the primary drivers of international politics.
Example: The Cold War rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union where both superpowers pursued their national interests and competed for global influence.
Liberalism: It emphasizes the importance of cooperation, diplomacy, international institutions, and shared values as ways to achieve peace and prosperity in the international system.
Example: The formation of the United Nations (UN) after World War II with the goal of promoting international cooperation, peace, and security.
Constructivism: It argues that state behaviour and international outcomes are not solely determined by material interests or power dynamics but are also influenced by ideas, norms, and beliefs.
Example: The Paris Agreement on climate change reflects a shift in international norms and beliefs about the importance of addressing climate change.
Marxism: It views that class struggle and economic inequality influence the behaviour of states in International politics. The dependency theory of Marxism shows how wealthy nations exploit and dominate poorer ones through economic and political means.
Example: Resource extraction and economic exploitation in African countries by western powers.
Neo-realism: Neo-realism argues that the structure of the international system, particularly the distribution of power among states, determines their behaviour.
Example: The changing security infrastructure due to NATO’s expansion in Eastern Europe can be seen as one of the reasons behind Ukraine war by Russia.
Neo-liberalism: Neo-liberalism focuses on economic interdependence and cooperation, emphasizing the benefits of free markets and globalization.
Example: The World Trade Organization (WTO) and its promotion of free trade agreements and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude
Theories in International Relations
ethics in International Relations
international ethics
Realism
liberalism
Constructivism
marxism
neo realism
neo liberalism
General Studies Paper 4
Ethics in International Relations
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