International Relations and Foreign Policy
This domain covers international politics and the making of foreign policy. It tests theories, levels of analysis, security, diplomacy, international law, and the instruments states use to pursue national interest.
Core frameworks
- Realism stresses anarchy, self-help, power, and balancing. Liberalism emphasises institutions, interdependence, domestic politics, and cooperation. Constructivism highlights identities, norms, and how interests are socially constructed.
- Levels of analysis are individual leaders, state-level domestic politics, and the international system. Explanations should specify the level being used.
- Foreign policy instruments include diplomacy, sanctions, aid, trade policy, alliances, and force. National interest is contested and shaped by domestic coalitions.
- Collective security commits members to oppose aggression by any member; collective defence is an alliance against an external threat. International law lacks central enforcement, so reciprocity and reputation matter.
Worked example
A small state's neighbour invades a third country. The small state joins a defence alliance and accepts foreign troops. Realism explains this as balancing against a threat. Liberalism notes that the alliance is an institution and that domestic politics may push leaders to join. Constructivism asks whether shared identity with the victim shaped the response. A strong answer weighs threat perception, alliance commitments, and domestic coalitions rather than asserting one theory.
Traps
Do not use 'realism' as a synonym for 'foreign policy'. Do not confuse collective security with collective defence. Avoid ignoring domestic politics or treating international law as automatically enforceable.