Master Realism in International Relations: Online Learning Quizzes

Question 1

Which of the following statements is NOT a core principle of Realism in International Relations?

Accepted Answer

Cooperation is essential for maintaining peace and stability.

Answer

States act rationally to maximize their own interests.

Answer

States are the primary actors in the international system.

Answer

Power is the primary driving force in global politics.

Question 2

The Peloponnesian War between Sparta and Athens, as described by Thucydides, is often cited as an early example of:

Accepted Answer

Realist thinking.

Answer

Constructivist thinking.

Answer

Liberal thinking.

Answer

Idealist thinking.

Question 3

Which of the following is a key concept in Kenneth Waltz's neorealist theory?

Accepted Answer

Structural constraints.

Answer

Human nature.

Answer

Economic interdependence.

Answer

Ideological competition.

Question 4

According to Realists, the primary motivation for states to seek power is:

Accepted Answer

To ensure their survival and security.

Answer

To establish a world government.

Answer

To build a more prosperous global economy.

Answer

To promote democracy and human rights.

Question 5

Which of the following is a common criticism of Realism?

Accepted Answer

It overemphasizes material factors and ignores social and cultural influences in international relations.

Answer

It provides a clear and concise framework for analyzing international relations.

Answer

It is supported by a wealth of empirical evidence.

Question 6

Realists argue that the international system is:

Accepted Answer

Anarchical and characterized by self-help.

Answer

Democratic and accountable.

Answer

Hierarchical and rule-based.

Answer

Cooperative and interdependent.

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT a commonly recognized balance of power strategy?

Accepted Answer

Appeasement.

Answer

Isolationism.

Answer

Alliances.

Answer

Arms races.

Question 8

According to John Mearsheimer's offensive realism, what is the primary source of conflict in the international system?

Accepted Answer

The distribution of power among states.

Answer

Ideological differences.

Answer

Environmental degradation.

Answer

Economic competition.

Question 9

How does Realism differ from Idealism in its approach to international relations?

Accepted Answer

Realism emphasizes power and national interest, while Idealism emphasizes cooperation and international law.

Answer

Realism focuses on the individual level, while Idealism focuses on the state level.

Question 10

Which of the following is a key assumption of Realism?

Accepted Answer

States are unitary actors that act rationally in pursuit of their national interests.

Answer

International organizations play a significant role in promoting cooperation.

Answer

Economic interdependence makes war obsolete.

Question 11

Which of the following is a core principle of Realism in International Relations?

Accepted Answer

States prioritize power and national interest in their actions.

Answer

International organizations are the main actors in global politics.

Answer

Economic interdependence leads to greater cooperation and peace.

Question 12

Who is widely recognized as the father of modern Realism?

Accepted Answer

Hans Morgenthau

Answer

Kenneth Waltz

Answer

Niccolò Machiavelli

Question 13

Which of the following is NOT a fundamental assumption of Realism?

Accepted Answer

States naturally cooperate with each other.

Answer

States act rationally to achieve their goals.

Answer

The international system lacks a central authority.

Answer

Power is unevenly distributed among states.

Question 14

According to Kenneth Waltz's neorealist theory, the structure of the international system:

Accepted Answer

Compels states to compete for power and security.

Answer

Can be transformed through international institutions.

Answer

Has minimal influence on state behavior.

Answer

Promotes cooperation and interdependence among states.

Question 15

In a Realist framework, what does the 'balance of power' refer to?

Accepted Answer

A distribution of power among states that prevents any single state from dominating.

Answer

An alliance of states working together to maintain a balance of power.

Answer

A strategy advocating for unilateral military expansion.

Question 16

From a Realist perspective, why do states engage in arms races?

Accepted Answer

To gain a strategic advantage over potential adversaries.

Answer

To promote peace and stability in the international system.

Answer

To avoid falling behind in technological advancements.

Question 17

How does Realism view the role of international law in international relations?

Accepted Answer

A useful tool for managing relations between states, but ultimately lacking enforcement power.

Answer

A binding set of rules that all states must strictly adhere to.

Answer

An obstacle to state sovereignty and independence.

Question 18

In Realism, what does the term 'national interest' encompass?

Accepted Answer

The goals and objectives a state pursues to ensure its survival and well-being.

Answer

The interests of the state's citizens as a collective entity.

Answer

The moral or ethical principles that guide a state's foreign policy.