Master International Relations Theories: Online Quizzes and Study Guide

Question 1

Constructivism emphasizes the role of:

Accepted Answer

Shared beliefs, values, and norms

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Material capabilities

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Geographic factors

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Domestic politics

Question 2

According to constructivism, norms:

Accepted Answer

Can influence state behavior

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Are objective and fixed

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Are created and maintained by states

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Are irrelevant to international relations

Question 3

In international relations, 'sovereignty' refers to:

Accepted Answer

The exclusive authority of a state within its territory and over its population

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The equal legal status of all states

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The right of states to intervene in the affairs of other states

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The obligation of states to cooperate with each other

Question 4

The primary difference between constructivism and rationalist theories regarding state behavior is:

Accepted Answer

Constructivists emphasize the influence of ideas and norms, while rationalists focus on material interests.

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Rationalists assume that states are unitary actors, while constructivists consider the role of domestic politics.

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Constructivists view states as inherently aggressive, while rationalists believe they are fundamentally defensive.

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Rationalists argue that states are driven by power, while constructivists prioritize security.

Question 5

A key concept in feminist international relations theory is:

Accepted Answer

Patriarchy

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Nationalism

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Realpolitik

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Collective security

Question 6

How do constructivist approaches generally advocate for improving global governance?

Accepted Answer

Strengthening international institutions and promoting cooperation.

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Promoting the spread of liberal values and democracy.

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Reducing the role of the state and empowering civil society.

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Increasing the use of military force to enforce international norms.

Question 7

According to liberal theory, which of the following is a significant factor influencing international relations?

Accepted Answer

Economic interconnectedness

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Cultural values and beliefs

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Military capabilities

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Nationalistic sentiments

Question 8

Constructivist theory in international relations emphasizes which core idea?

Accepted Answer

The identities and interests of states are shaped by social interactions and norms.

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The international system is self-organizing, influenced by the actions and interactions of states.

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States' behaviors are solely determined by material factors, such as economic power and military capabilities.

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International norms and institutions have no significant impact on state behavior.

Question 9

In realist theory, how is the relationship between power and security conceptualized?

Accepted Answer

Power is viewed as essential for achieving security.

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Security can only be attained through cooperative efforts.

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Power is not a reliable indicator of security.

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Security is a subjective concept, varying across different states.

Question 10

According to liberal theory, which factor is most conducive to international cooperation?

Accepted Answer

Shared economic interests

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Military alliances

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Balance of power dynamics

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Diplomatic negotiations

Question 11

Which criticism is NOT commonly leveled against constructivism?

Accepted Answer

Precise definition of power

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Overemphasis on the role of ideas and norms

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Neglect of material factors

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Difficulty in empirical application

Question 12

What is a key distinction between neo-realism and classical realism?

Accepted Answer

Neo-realism considers the influence of non-state actors.

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Neo-realism emphasizes power dynamics.

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Classical realism posits a unipolar world system.

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Neo-realism focuses on long-term outcomes.

Question 13

According to constructivism, how do norms and ideas influence international relations?

Accepted Answer

They shape state behavior

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They are shaped by material conditions

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They play no significant role

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They only affect small states

Question 14

Which factor is NOT a determinant of the balance of power in international relations?

Accepted Answer

Cultural values

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Economic strength

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Military capabilities

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Geographic location

Question 15

Which theory of international relations views power and national interest as the primary determinants of state behavior?

Accepted Answer

Realism

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Constructivism

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Marxism

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Liberalism

Question 16

According to the liberal perspective, what factor is considered the most influential in promoting cooperation among nations?

Accepted Answer

Economic interdependence

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Cultural similarities

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Military alliances

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Ideological affinity

Question 17

Which theory of international relations emphasizes the influence of social norms and beliefs on state behavior?

Accepted Answer

Constructivism

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Liberalism

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Realism

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Marxism

Question 18

Which of the following is a critique commonly associated with realism?

Accepted Answer

It underestimates the potential for cooperation among states.

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It provides a comprehensive framework for analyzing international relations.

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It accurately reflects the complexities of international politics.

Question 19

In the context of liberal institutionalism, what is the primary role of international organizations?

Accepted Answer

To facilitate cooperation and reduce uncertainty among member states.

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To maintain a balance of power between states.

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To promote economic growth and development.

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To resolve international conflicts through military intervention.

Question 20

Which theory of international relations places emphasis on the role of culture and identity in shaping state behavior?

Accepted Answer

Social constructivism

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Marxism

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Institutionalism

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Neorealism

Question 21

Which of the following is a fundamental assumption of constructivism?

Accepted Answer

The identities and interests of states are shaped by social interactions.

Answer

The international system is inherently anarchic.

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Economic interdependence is the primary driver of cooperation.

Question 22

Which theory would be most likely to predict that a state will use military force to defend its allies?

Accepted Answer

Realism

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Liberalism

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Marxism

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Constructivism

Question 23

What is a potential limitation of using multiple-choice questions (MCQs) to assess student learning in international relations?

Accepted Answer

They may not fully capture students' ability to analyze complex theoretical arguments.

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They are too subjective.

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They are too easy to guess.

Question 24

In international relations theory, what does the concept of 'securitization' refer to?

Accepted Answer

The process of constructing an issue as a security threat.

Answer

The creation of alliances between states.

Answer

The use of military force to achieve political objectives.