Introduction to
International
Relations
By Muhammad Ansar
What are International
Relations?
● The study of interactions between countries and
other actors (like international organizations and
corporations).
● Examines how they cooperate, compete, and resolve
conflicts.
● Key areas include: war, peace, trade,
environmental issues, and human rights.
Core Concepts
● States:
○ Definition: A political unit with a defined territory, population,
government, and sovereignty.
○ Examples: The United States, China, India, Pakistan
● Nations:
○ Definition: A group of people with a shared identity (culture,
language, history).
○ Examples: The Kurds, Palestinians, French Canadians
● Power:
○ Definition: The ability to influence or control the behavior of others.
○ Types: Military, economic, diplomatic
● Sovereignty:
○ Definition: The supreme authority of a state within its own borders.
Major Theories
● Realism:
○ Main Idea: The world is anarchic (no central authority), states are
the main actors, and they pursue power and self-interest.
○ Example: A realist would argue that the United States invaded
Iraq in 2003 primarily to protect its own interests, not to spread
democracy.
● Liberalism:
○ Main Idea: International cooperation is possible, international
institutions and law matter, and democracy and human rights are
important.
○ Example: A liberal would argue that the European Union is a
successful example of international cooperation that has
promoted peace and prosperity in Europe.
Major Theories
● Constructivism:
○ Main Idea: Ideas, norms, and identities shape international
relations, and these can change over time.
○ Example: A constructivist would argue that the end of the Cold
War was not simply due to a shift in the balance of power, but also
to a change in ideas about the legitimacy of communism.
Illustrative Example
● Example: The relationship between India and Pakistan
● Realist View: Both states are vying for power and
influence in the region, leading to conflict.
● Liberal View: Cooperation is possible through
diplomacy and international organizations.
● Constructivist View: The history of partition and
religious differences shape their interactions.
Conclusion
● International relations are complex
and constantly evolving.
● Different theories offer different
perspectives on the same events.
● Understanding these theories can help
us to better understand the world
around us.
Thanks!
Q&A
