International Relations Quizzes: Test Your Knowledge

Question 1

How do non-state actors, such as NGOs and multinational corporations, influence global affairs?

Accepted Answer

Non-state actors play a growing role in shaping global affairs, sometimes independently or even against state actors.

Answer

Non-state actors have a limited impact, mainly operating within their own countries.

Answer

Non-state actors support and enhance the efforts of state actors in global affairs.

Question 2

How have non-governmental organizations (NGOs) gained influence in international relations?

Accepted Answer

By mobilizing public support, advocating for policy changes, and monitoring the implementation of international agreements

Answer

By providing humanitarian aid, leading governments to delegate responsibilities to them

Answer

By becoming the sole authority for setting the global agenda and implementing international agreements

Answer

By operating without accountability and acting with impunity in international relations

Question 3

How does economic interdependence affect the likelihood of armed conflict between countries?

Accepted Answer

Economic interdependence reduces the likelihood of armed conflict because countries become more dependent on each other, making them less likely to disrupt economic ties.

Answer

Economic interdependence always prevents armed conflict.

Answer

Economic interdependence only reduces the likelihood of armed conflict between developed countries.

Answer

Economic interdependence has no impact on the likelihood of armed conflict.

Question 4

Assess the effectiveness of economic sanctions as a tool of foreign policy, considering both their intended and unintended consequences.

Accepted Answer

Economic sanctions can have unintended consequences, such as harming innocent civilians.

Answer

Economic sanctions are always effective in achieving their intended goals.

Answer

Economic sanctions are only effective if imposed by a coalition of powerful states.

Answer

Economic sanctions are a legitimate and effective tool of foreign policy that should be used more often.

Question 5

How do international intergovernmental organizations, like the UN and G20, help address global challenges?

Accepted Answer

They promote cooperation, coordinate efforts, and provide a platform for dialogue.

Answer

They are often ineffective due to political divisions and limited enforcement.

Answer

They mainly focus on security issues and have a limited role in non-security challenges.

Answer

They are primarily used by powerful states to advance their own interests.

Question 6

Which concept is not considered fundamental in the study of international relations?

Accepted Answer

Economic development

Answer

Power dynamics

Answer

Security concerns

Answer

Role of international organizations

Question 7

The realist school of international relations posits that a nation's behavior is primarily shaped by:

Accepted Answer

National security

Answer

Moral values

Answer

Cultural identity

Answer

International law

Question 8

A key characteristic of a multipolar international system is:

Accepted Answer

Wide distribution of power among multiple states

Answer

Dominance by a few powerful states

Answer

Limited alliances and balancing behavior

Answer

Increased likelihood of conflicts

Question 9

War is not considered a tool of:

Accepted Answer

Diplomacy

Answer

Negotiation

Answer

Sanctions

Answer

Mediation

Question 10

Which perspective in international relations emphasizes the pursuit of national interests and the centrality of power?

Accepted Answer

Realism

Answer

The primacy of state power and security

Question 11

Why is the proliferation of nuclear weapons a major concern in international relations?

Accepted Answer

It increases the likelihood of nuclear conflict and undermines trust among nations.

Answer

Undermines trust and cooperation between states

Question 12

Which criticism is commonly leveled against liberal internationalism?

Accepted Answer

It is overly optimistic about the possibility of cooperation between states.

Answer

It focuses too much on economic issues and neglects security concerns

Question 13

What does the term 'soft power' refer to in international relations?

Accepted Answer

A country's ability to influence others through its culture, values, and diplomacy.

Answer

A country's ability to influence others through culture, values, and diplomacy

Question 14

The 'War on Terror' launched by the United States after 9/11 exemplified which approach to international relations?

Accepted Answer

A unipolar approach characterized by unilateral action and the dominance of a single superpower.

Answer

A multipolar approach to international relations

Question 15

What is the primary function of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)?

Accepted Answer

To provide collective security for its member states.

Answer

Economic cooperation

Question 16

Which concept emphasizes the protection of individuals from various threats to their well-being?

Accepted Answer

Human security

Answer

The security of nation-states from external threats

Question 17

According to realist theory, the primary motivation for state behavior in the international system is:

Accepted Answer

Power

Answer

Cooperation

Answer

Morality

Answer

Ideology

Question 18

Which of the following international organizations is primarily responsible for regulating international trade?

Accepted Answer

World Trade Organization (WTO)

Answer

United Nations

Answer

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)

Answer

International Monetary Fund (IMF)

Question 19

Which term refers to the ability of a state to influence the decisions or actions of other states?

Accepted Answer

Power

Answer

Diplomacy

Answer

Sovereignty

Answer

Hegemony

Question 20

Which of the following is NOT a core concept in international relations?

Accepted Answer

Justice

Answer

Power

Answer

Security

Answer

Interdependence

Question 21

According to realism, which actor is the primary focus of international relations?

Accepted Answer

The state

Answer

The individual

Answer

The international organization

Answer

The non-state actor

Question 22

What is the primary goal of the United Nations Security Council?

Accepted Answer

To maintain international peace and security

Answer

To promote economic development

Answer

To protect human rights

Answer

To resolve territorial disputes

Question 23

Which of the following is NOT a factor that can contribute to international conflict?

Accepted Answer

Cultural understanding

Answer

Nationalism

Answer

Economic competition

Answer

Environmental degradation

Question 24

What is the concept of 'soft power'?

Accepted Answer

The ability to influence others through persuasion and attraction

Answer

The ability to project military force

Answer

The ability to control economic resources

Answer

The ability to form alliances

Question 25

What is the main purpose of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)?

Accepted Answer

To defend member states against military attack

Answer

To promote economic cooperation

Answer

To resolve conflicts through diplomacy

Answer

To provide humanitarian aid

Question 26

What is the concept of 'securitization'?

Accepted Answer

The process by which an issue is perceived as a threat to national security

Answer

The use of military force to achieve political goals

Answer

The development of nuclear weapons

Answer

The creation of international alliances

Question 27

Which fundamental concept in international relations emphasizes the distribution and use of power among states?

Accepted Answer

Power dynamics

Answer

Economic disparities

Answer

Cultural differences

Answer

Technological advancements

Question 28

Which theory of international relations assumes that states are rational actors focused on maximizing their power and security?

Accepted Answer

Realism

Answer

Liberalism

Answer

Constructivism

Answer

Marxism

Question 29

What is the primary objective of collective security arrangements?

Accepted Answer

To deter aggression and provide collective defense

Answer

To resolve conflicts through peaceful means

Answer

To promote economic cooperation

Answer

To protect human rights and fundamental freedoms

Question 30

Which characteristic best describes soft power?

Accepted Answer

Based on cultural influence and persuasion

Answer

Exercised through military force

Answer

Derived from economic dominance

Answer

Applied through diplomatic pressure

Question 31

What is the primary purpose of maintaining a balance of power in international relations?

Accepted Answer

To prevent any one state from becoming excessively powerful

Answer

To promote economic stability

Answer

To encourage political cooperation

Answer

To resolve territorial disputes

Question 32

What is the fundamental distinction between absolute and relative gains?

Accepted Answer

Absolute gains focus on improvements within a single state, while relative gains prioritize improvements in relation to other states.

Answer

Absolute gains are more achievable, while relative gains are more sustainable.

Answer

Absolute gains are measured in economic terms, while relative gains are measured in terms of power.

Answer

There is no fundamental difference between absolute and relative gains.

Question 33

Which of the following is NOT a core function of the United Nations?

Accepted Answer

Resolving economic disputes

Answer

Maintaining international peace and security

Answer

Promoting human rights and sustainable development

Answer

Providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief

Question 34

What is the primary purpose of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)?

Accepted Answer

To protect its member states from military aggression

Answer

To promote economic cooperation

Answer

To resolve political conflicts

Answer

To provide humanitarian assistance

Question 35

Which of the following is a fundamental principle of international relations theory?

Accepted Answer

Power is the primary determinant of state behavior.

Answer

States are the only legitimate actors in the international system.

Answer

Ethics and morality have no place in international relations.

Answer

International cooperation is always possible.

Question 36

Which of the following is NOT a fundamental theoretical perspective in international relations?

Accepted Answer

Feminist theory

Answer

Realism

Answer

Liberalism

Answer

Marxism

Question 37

Which international organization is primarily responsible for maintaining international peace and security, as outlined in its charter?

Accepted Answer

United Nations

Answer

European Union

Answer

North Atlantic Treaty Organization

Answer

World Trade Organization

Question 38

Which of the following factors is considered a 'hard power' capability in international relations, referring to tangible and coercive forms of power?

Accepted Answer

Military strength

Answer

Economic resources

Answer

Diplomatic influence

Answer

Cultural soft power

Question 39

What is the term for a policy of non-interference in the affairs of other states, often adopted to avoid entanglement in foreign conflicts?

Accepted Answer

Isolationism

Answer

Interventionism

Answer

Appeasement

Answer

Containment

Question 40

Which of the following is a key concept in liberal theory in international relations, emphasizing cooperation, interdependence, and the role of international institutions?

Accepted Answer

Interdependence

Answer

Balance of power

Answer

Nationalism

Answer

Anarchy

Question 41

What is the term for a state's ability to influence the behaviour of other states through attraction and persuasion, rather than coercion or force?

Accepted Answer

Soft power

Answer

Coercive diplomacy

Answer

Economic sanctions

Answer

Gunboat diplomacy

Question 42

In international relations, the concept of power primarily refers to the:

Accepted Answer

Ability of an actor to influence others in the international system

Answer

Belief that one's nation is superior to others

Answer

Skill of negotiating and resolving conflicts peacefully

Answer

Independent authority of a state within its borders

Question 43

Which of the following is not considered a major concern of international security?

Accepted Answer

Cultural exchanges

Answer

Armed conflicts

Answer

Economic instability

Answer

Climate change

Question 44

The primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security falls upon which international organization?

Accepted Answer

United Nations

Answer

World Trade Organization

Answer

International Monetary Fund

Answer

World Health Organization

Question 45

Which theory of international relations emphasizes cooperation and interdependence as key factors shaping global outcomes?

Accepted Answer

Liberalism

Answer

Realism

Answer

Constructivism

Answer

Marxism

Question 46

The concept of deterrence refers to the idea that states may use:

Accepted Answer

Military force to safeguard vital interests

Answer

Economic sanctions to punish adversaries

Answer

Diplomacy to resolve conflicts

Answer

Soft power to influence others

Question 47

A key objective of the United Nations Security Council is to:

Accepted Answer

Maintain international peace and security

Answer

Promote economic development

Answer

Protect human rights

Answer

Facilitate cultural exchange

Question 48

Which theory of international relations emphasizes the influence of ideas and values on state behavior?

Accepted Answer

Constructivism

Answer

Realism

Answer

Liberalism

Answer

Marxism

Question 49

Which concept is fundamental to understanding international relations?

Accepted Answer

Power dynamics

Answer

Nationalism

Answer

Democratic governance

Answer

Rule of law

Question 50

What theory emphasizes the distribution of power among states as the primary factor shaping international relations?

Accepted Answer

Realism

Answer

Liberalism

Answer

Constructivism

Answer

Dependency Theory

Question 51

Which characteristic is NOT associated with the realist theory?

Accepted Answer

Cooperation between states is always possible.

Answer

States are the primary actors in international relations.

Answer

States act rationally and as unified entities.

Answer

States prioritize maximizing their power and security.

Question 52

Which international organization is responsible for maintaining international peace and security?

Accepted Answer

United Nations

Answer

World Bank

Answer

International Monetary Fund

Answer

World Trade Organization

Question 53

Describe a security dilemma.

Accepted Answer

Situations where states increase their own security by reducing the security of others.

Answer

Situations where states cooperate to achieve common security goals.

Answer

Situations where states are in conflict with each other.

Answer

Situations where states are at peace with each other.

Question 54

Which factor does NOT contribute to increased interdependence in a globalized world?

Accepted Answer

Strengthened state sovereignty

Answer

Technological advancements in transportation and communication

Answer

Increased trade and economic activity

Answer

Political and cultural exchanges

Question 55

What criticism is commonly leveled against the liberal theory of international relations?

Accepted Answer

It is unrealistic and disregards the realities of power politics.

Answer

It assumes that states are always rational and cooperative.

Answer

It overemphasizes the role of international organizations.

Answer

It downplays the significance of national interests.

Question 56

In a unipolar international system, which of the following is not a characteristic?

Accepted Answer

Equal distribution of power

Answer

Presence of a single dominant power

Answer

Reduced conflict between major powers

Answer

Increased cooperation among weaker nations

Question 57

Which international relations theory emphasizes that states behave primarily in their own national interests?

Accepted Answer

Realism

Answer

Liberalism

Answer

Constructivism

Answer

Marxism

Question 58

What is the primary responsibility of the United Nations Security Council?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining global peace and security

Answer

Promoting economic growth

Answer

Safeguarding human rights

Answer

Resolving international disputes

Question 59

In international relations, what is 'soft power'?

Accepted Answer

Influencing others through diplomacy and persuasion

Answer

Coercing others through military force

Answer

Controlling economic resources

Answer

Manipulating international law

Question 60

What is the International Court of Justice's role in international law?

Accepted Answer

Resolving disputes between nations

Answer

Interpreting international treaties

Answer

Punishing individuals for international crimes

Answer

Enforcing international law

Question 61

In international relations, what is the concept of 'balance of power'?

Accepted Answer

Distributing power among nations to prevent any one from dominating

Answer

Using military alliances to deter aggression

Answer

Establishing international organizations to promote peace

Answer

Imposing economic sanctions on nations

Question 62

Which of the following is a characteristic of a bipolar international system?

Accepted Answer

Two dominant powers

Answer

Frequent conflict between major powers

Answer

Increased cooperation among smaller powers

Answer

Unpredictable power dynamics

Question 63

According to realist theory, which of the following is a fundamental belief about the behavior of states in international relations?

Accepted Answer

States prioritize maximizing their power and security above all else.

Answer

International organizations can effectively resolve conflicts between states.

Answer

Cooperation between states is a common and easily achievable goal.

Answer

Economic interdependence inevitably leads to peaceful relations between states.

Question 64

A primary goal of international relations is to:

Accepted Answer

Maintain peace and stability

Answer

Maximize economic profit

Answer

Promote cultural exchange

Answer

Prevent the spread of disease