POLS 2940 Midterm: Exam Notes 18
17 Jan 2019
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Document Summary
Before it was distinguishable as a subject matter in ir. States diplomatic and military practises later identified as realism. Also shown in power seeking behavior of human beings and their motives: fear, honour, profit. To survive + further their own communities + political interests. No choice but to pursue power + struggle to defend themselves. Describe the world as it is rather then how we wish it would be. After ww1 + league of nations + other practises to pacify world politics. =failed = rise of realist scholars in the emergent field of ir. Critical approach towards inter-war period teachings = idealists + utopian. Critique of idealists = trying to find a cure for war = ignoring the role of power. Optimism over finding a rational solution to settle disputes peacefully. Confirmation for realists about shortcomings of idealists thinking. 1940s 1970s debate between inter-war idealists + new generation realists. Many scholars still push for inter-state cooperation + world peace.
