Theories of International Relations Quizzes - Test Your Knowledge

Question 1

Constructivism in International Relations emphasizes the role of:

Accepted Answer

Ideas and social norms in shaping state behaviour.

Answer

Material factors in shaping state behaviour.

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Power and security in shaping state behaviour.

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Economic interdependence in shaping state behaviour.

Question 2

In the realist theory of international relations, which assumption is considered fundamental?

Accepted Answer

States are the main players, prioritizing power and security.

Answer

Cooperation between nations is prevalent due to shared interests.

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Moral principles significantly guide state actions.

Question 3

Liberalism in international relations is criticized for being:

Accepted Answer

Too idealistic

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Too pessimistic

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Too focused on material interests

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Too focused on military power

Question 4

In constructivism, which factor is considered the primary determinant of state behavior?

Accepted Answer

Social norms

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Material interests

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Ideology

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Geographic factors

Question 5

Which concept is central to critical theory in international relations?

Accepted Answer

Discourse

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Hegemony

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Sovereignty

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Balance of power

Question 6

A strength of realism is that it:

Accepted Answer

Provides a clear explanation of international politics

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Is empirically testable

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Is applicable to all international systems

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Emphasizes cooperation and harmony

Question 7

Constructivism assumes that:

Accepted Answer

Norms and values shape state behavior

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States are rational actors

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The international system is anarchic

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Power is the ultimate goal of states

Question 8

Which of the following is a fundamental assumption of realist theory in international relations?

Accepted Answer

States are the primary actors.

Answer

The international system is inherently cooperative.

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Power distribution is irrelevant.

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Force is never justified.

Question 9

Liberalism in international relations theory maintains that:

Accepted Answer

Cooperation is possible and desirable among states.

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Conflict is inevitable due to the inherent aggression of states.

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The distribution of power is the sole determinant of state behavior.

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International institutions are powerless.

Question 10

A central concept in constructivist theory is:

Accepted Answer

Social norms

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Balance of power

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Self-interest

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Hegemony

Question 11

Critical theory in international relations posits that:

Accepted Answer

State power is the primary source of oppression.

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The international system is inherently just and equitable.

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All states are equally powerful.

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Conflict is always avoidable.

Question 12

A common criticism of liberalism in international relations is that it is:

Accepted Answer

Too idealistic and unrealistic.

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Too focused on power dynamics.

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Too pessimistic about human nature.

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Too deterministic.

Question 13

A major critique of constructivism is that it can be:

Accepted Answer

Too vague and ambiguous.

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Too deterministic and inflexible.

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Too optimistic about human cooperation.

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Too pessimistic about the possibility of change.

Question 14

The concept of 'international society' is closely associated with which theory of international relations?

Accepted Answer

The English School

Answer

Realism

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Liberalism

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Constructivism

Question 15

The concept of 'securitization' in international relations is most closely linked to:

Accepted Answer

Constructivist theory

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Realist theory

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Liberal theory

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Critical theory

Question 16

Which of the following is a key assumption of realism in international relations?

Accepted Answer

States are the primary actors, seeking to maximize their power and security in an anarchic global system.

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Individuals have a decisive influence on foreign policy decision-making.

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International organizations play the most significant role in shaping world politics.

Question 17

Liberalism in international relations emphasizes the importance of:

Accepted Answer

Economic interdependence and cooperation among nations, which can foster peace and prosperity.

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The critical examination of power dynamics and inequalities in global politics.

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The role of culture and ideas in shaping the interests and identities of states.

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Military strength and the balance of power as the primary determinants of state behavior.

Question 18

Which theory in international relations argues that the identities and interests of states are socially constructed?

Accepted Answer

Constructivism

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Marxism

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Liberalism

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Realism

Question 19

The primary goal of critical theory in international relations is to:

Accepted Answer

Expose and critique the power imbalances and inequalities that shape global politics.

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Predict the future course of international events with accuracy.

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Provide a comprehensive blueprint for a just and peaceful world order.

Question 20

Liberalism's emphasis on economic interdependence suggests that:

Accepted Answer

Increased trade and economic ties between nations can reduce the likelihood of conflict.

Answer

Military alliances are the most effective way to deter aggression and maintain stability.

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National sovereignty is an outdated concept that hinders international cooperation.

Question 21

Constructivism argues that:

Accepted Answer

The interests and identities of states are shaped by the social interactions, norms, and ideas that exist within the international system.

Answer

International institutions and organizations have limited influence on state behavior.

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States are unitary actors that rationally pursue their self-interest in a competitive global environment.

Question 22

Which of the following is a key insight of critical theory?

Accepted Answer

Power relations are embedded in the structures and institutions of global politics.

Answer

Individuals have the agency and power to bring about significant social change.

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The state holds a monopoly on the legitimate use of violence and coercion.

Question 23

Which theory emphasizes the role of culture and norms in shaping international relations?

Accepted Answer

Constructivism

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Liberalism

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Marxism

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Realism

Question 24

Critical theory suggests that international relations is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Power imbalances, inequalities, and the domination of certain actors over others.

Answer

Rational decision-making and a focus on maximizing national利益.

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A level playing field where all states have equal opportunities and influence.

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Cooperation, harmony, and a shared commitment to global peace.