This essay deals with liberalism in international politics. Although there are some variations, distinctions and at times even contradictions within the liberal theory, several main themes of a liberal approach can be distinguished. The essay sets out to investigate what are the principal themes of a liberal approach to international politics and how they have been reflected in practice.
There are substantial disagreements between many authors regarding the extent to which liberalist ideas have been realised within the international politics. Some regard liberalism, particularly with its manifestation in the global world economy as a very powerful and influential doctrine. Others, however, argue that liberalism lacks sufficient influence within Western societies and perhaps even more in non-Western ones and cannot return as a major political force due to the underlying tensions and contradictions
It can be, however, argued that liberal ideas have come to dominate the economic sphere, although, it is questionable whether in the light of the recent financial crisis any further deregulation, particularly in financial sector is possible. In addition, the many internal contradictions between the liberal ideas, most notably the free market and human rights and the devastating effects of unfettered trade, such as environmental degradation, growing inequalities and economic dependencies call for a different approach to international politics, at least with regards to the economical policy.
Table of Contents
- The Impact of Liberalism in International Politics
- Liberal Theory and Practice
- Liberal Values and their Application in International Relations
- Human Rights and Freedoms
- Democracy and the Rule of Law
- Self-Determination and Non-Intervention
- Pluralism and the Distribution of Power
- The Role of International Law and Organisations
- The Free Market System and Interdependence
- The Influence of Liberalism in the Post-Cold War Era
- The Changing Role of the State and the Rise of New Power Dynamics
- The Legacy of Liberalism in International Politics
Objectives and Key Themes
This essay aims to explore the impact of liberalism in international politics. It sets out to identify the main themes of a liberal approach and analyse how these themes have been reflected in practice. The essay examines the historical development of liberal thought and its influence on contemporary international relations.
- The core values of liberalism, including human rights, democracy, and free trade
- The application of liberal principles in the international arena, such as non-intervention and the promotion of international institutions
- The role of the state in a globalized world and the influence of transnational actors
- The debates and controversies surrounding liberalism's impact on international relations
- The challenges and limitations of liberal ideals in the face of global power dynamics and international conflicts
Chapter Summaries
The essay begins by defining liberalism and outlining its key themes. It then examines how these themes have been manifested in practice, focusing on human rights, democracy promotion, non-intervention, and the development of international institutions.
The essay explores the role of the free market system in liberal theory and its impact on international interdependence. It examines the influence of liberalism in the post-Cold War era and analyzes the changing role of the state in a globalized world.
The essay concludes by considering the legacy of liberalism in international politics and the debates surrounding its future prospects.
Keywords
The primary focus of the essay is on liberalism and its impact on international politics. Key themes include human rights, democracy, free trade, non-intervention, international law, international organizations, the role of the state, globalization, and the distribution of power. The essay also examines the influence of liberal ideas on global economic development and the challenges posed by global power dynamics and international conflicts.
- Quote paper
- Linda Vuskane (Author), 2011, The impact of liberalism in international politics, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/510805
