9th Social, Political Science, CHAPTER 24 – An Introduction to the Study of International Relations

9th Social Political Science CHAPTER – 24

An Introduction to the Study of International Relations

EXERCISES

I. Fill in the blanks with suitable words.

1. The study of international relations is called international politics said by  Hans J Morgenthau

2. Woodrow Wilson Chair started at University of Wales in Britain University.

3.  Jeremy Bentham Used the term International Relations for the very first time.

II. Answer the following questions after group discussion.

4. What is the study of international relations?

Answer: There are 195 sovereign nations in the contemporary world. Although these nations are fully independent, they are not self-sufficient nations. Whether it is an individual or a nation representing them, it is imperative to connect with another nation to redress the grievances of its people. Imperatives like these prefaced the study of international relations.

5. When did the systematic study of international relations begin?

Answer: The systematic study of international relations began after the First World War. Systematic study of international relations began in universities in countries such as America, Britain and Sweden. It was realized in 1919 by starting the Woodrow Wilson Chair at the 

University of Wales in Britain.

6. Who was the first chairman of the Woodrow Wilson Chair for the systematic study of international relations, started at the University of Wales?

Answer:  Ekarth Jim was the first chairman of the Woodrow Wilson Chair for the systematic study of international relations, started at the University of Wales.

7. Explain the nature of International Relations?

Answer: The study of international relations has its own nature. It is discussed as follows.

1. Nature of Change : The nature of international relations is dynamic. What has happened in world politics? what is going on And it’s a perfect analysis of what happens next.

 2. Interdisciplinary Content: The study of international relations is interdisciplinary in nature like other social sciences.

 3. Nation-state is the primary unit: In the study of international relations, the behavior of the state is the driving force for the movement of relations between nations.

 4. National Interest and National powers are Fundamental Factors: Protection of national interest is the main objective of the state. Nations develop relations with other nations with this goal in mind.

5. Struggle for power: According to Hans J. Marganthor, international politics is a struggle for power among nations. Whichever country has more power or power influences other countries to fulfill its interests.

6. Interaction and feedback among nations: No nation in the present world is self perfect. Every nation depends on another nation in some way. So it is imperative that they engage in interaction and feedback to protect their respective interests.

7. Use of Empirical and Analytical Methods for Theory Formation: Theories are the basis for the study of all branches of knowledge. Accordingly, theories are also the basis in the study of 

international relations.

8. Role of official and non-official institution: Both recognized and non-recognized organizations are influencing the study of international relations Organizations like (UN-United Nations) (World Bank) and (IMF-International Monetary Fund) are official institutions. 

8. What is the importance of International Relations?

Answer: Importance of Studying International Relations are as follows.

1. Introduces the real nature of world politics: World politics helps to understand the dynamics of real power relations between different nations and organizations. The actions and reactions of different countries depend on the policy orientations of the respective countries. Therefore international relations helps to realize the reality of world politics.

2. Helps realize national interests: National interests are the basic motivations of international relations. The nature of those interests determines the nature of international relations. It is 

for the fulfillment of these interests all nations develop their own relationships.

3. Gives knowledge about the major challenges facing the world : The study of international relations is the basis for dealing with the major challenges facing the world like hunger, malnutrition, poverty, diseases, illiteracy, unemployment, conflict, war, terrorism, 

climate change and biological problems.

4. Awakens Universal Consciousness: Although there are many differences due to different interests and beliefs between countries, the unity that we are all human beings in the end breaks down the boundaries between us. Such feelings contribute to world peace and 

awaken universal consciousness. The study of international relations is helpful in this regard.

5. Upholds the Importance of Foreign Policy : Study of Foreign Policy Part of the study of international relations. As mentioned earlier, good relations between countries are very necessary for world peace, and for that to materialize, knowledge of foreign policy is required.

6. Help to know the importance of international organizations:Various international organizations have been formed to facilitate human life. Also, there are many associations and unions at the world level. They are working for world peace. It is because of their activism that the world lives at peace to some extent. For example – the study of international organizations such as United Nations, World Bank, UNESCO, UNICEF etc. helps to understand such organizations comprehensively.

III. Activities:

1. Discuss in class the importance of interdependence in International Relations.

Answer: In International Relations, interdependence is crucial because it creates a system where nations rely on each other for various needs. It also carries risks of vulnerability and potential power imbalances between nations depending on the nature of their interdependence. Interdependence encourages collaboration to address transnational issues like climate change, pandemics, and terrorism, as no single country can effectively tackle them alone. Nations can specialize in producing goods and services they are most efficient at, leading to increased trade and overall economic prosperity when they rely on each other for different products. Interdependence can give smaller nations more leverage in international politics by providing them with bargaining chips in negotiations with larger powers. Heavy reliance on another country for essential goods or services can leave a nation vulnerable to disruptions in trade or political instability. 

2. List the factors contributing to global peace with the help of the teacher.

Answer: The eight pillars of positive peace are well-functioning government, sound business environment, acceptance of the rights of others, good relations with neighbours, free flow of information, high levels of human capital, low levels of corruption, and equitable distribution of resources.  It is not just the absence of conflict, but the active presence of harmony, justice, equality, and understanding both within individuals and between nations. Building peace from the inside out encourages sustainable solutions to global problems, such as human rights, environmental protection, and economic equity. 

3. Learn about life and achievements of Woodrow Wilson.

Answer: Woodrow Wilson was the 28th president of the United States. He led the country through World War I and was a key figure in the creation of the League of Nations.  He born in Staunton, Virginia on December 28, 1856. He attended Princeton University, where he became president in 1902. Later he earned a Ph.D. in political science from Johns Hopkins University in 1886. He married Ellen Louise Axson in 1885, and they had three daughters. Woodrow Wilson created the league of Nations after world war I (1914 – 18). He presided over ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment, giving women the right to vote, and laws that prohibited child labour and that mandated an eight-hour workday for railroad workers. 

Political career:

Became the governor of New Jersey in 1910

Selected as the Democratic presidential candidate in 1912

Won the election due to the Republican party split between William Howard Taft and Theodore Roosevelt

Achievements as president: 

Led the United States into World War I

Created the League of Nations

Ratified the Nineteenth Amendment, giving women the right to vote

Prohibited child labor

Mandated an eight-hour workday for railroad workers

Passed the Federal Reserve, Federal Trade Commission, Underwood-Simmons Act, Graduated income taxes, and Clayton Anti-Trust Act

Foreign policy:

His stance on foreign policy came to be known as Wilsonianism 

He called for the abolition of secret treaties, a reduction in armaments, and freedom of the seas 

4. List the material that constitutes the study of international relations.

Answer: International relations involve the study of such things as foreign policy, international conflict and negotiation, war, nuclear proliferation, terrorism, international trade and economics, and international development, among other subjects. As you may expect, international relations’ broad scope requires an interdisciplinary approach, drawing upon the fields of economics, law, political science, sociology, game theory, and even psychology.

International relations study is structured around three main themes: political thought, political institutions and international relations. Following an introduction to these themes, you’ll begin to tailor the course to your interests and aspirations with a selection of optional modules. These include areas such as security, interdependence, liberty, and comparative studies of political economies, democratic practice, and the role of global politics in the environment. 

IV. Projects:

1. Discuss the importance of meeting and exchange of ideas between leaders of different countries in improving international relations.

Answer: Meeting and exchanging ideas between leaders of different countries is crucial for improving international relations as it Meeting and exchanging ideas between leaders of different countries is crucial for improving international relations as it fosters mutual understanding, builds trust, allows for direct dialogue on complex issues, and creates opportunities to find common ground and collaborate on global challenges, ultimately promoting cooperation and reducing tensions between nations; essentially, it serves as a key tool for diplomacy and conflict resolution. Essentially, it serves as a key tool for diplomacy and conflict resolution. 

Direct dialogue allows leaders to express their views and concerns openly, gaining a deeper understanding of each other’s perspectives and priorities. 

Personal interactions between leaders can help break down stereotypes and create a foundation for stronger relationships, even when there are disagreements on policy issues. 

High-level meetings can send a positiv signal to the international community.

Leaders can leverage their meetings to foster cultural understanding and appreciation between their respective nations. 

2. Find out with the help of the teacher how Kautilya’s Arthashastra is useful for the development of international relations.

Answer: Kautilya’s Arthashastra is considered valuable for developing international relations due to its detailed analysis of power dynamics between states, emphasizing the concept of “Rajamandala” (circle of states), which outlines the need to understand and strategically manage relationships with neighboring countries, including potential allies and enemies, allowing for a nuanced approach to diplomacy based on power calculations and situational awareness; it also provides practical strategies like using diplomacy, alliances, and military force when necessary to protect national interests, making it relevant for modern foreign policy decision-making. 

Six-fold policy (Sama-Dana-Bheda-Danda): This policy advocates using a combination of conciliation, gifts, dissension, and force to manage relationships with other states, depending on the situation. 

Importance of intelligence gathering: Kautilya stresses the need for accurate information about other states to make informed decisions in diplomacy and warfare. 

Flexibility in strategy:The Arthashastra emphasizes adapting strategies based on changing circumstances and power dynamics, allowing for dynamic foreign policy adjustments. 

How modern states can apply Arthashastra principles:

Analyzing regional dynamics: Studying the “Mandala” concept to understand the power balance within a region and identify potential allies and adversaries. 

Strategic partnerships: Using the “Sama-Dana-Bheda-Danda” policy to build alliances, offer incentives, create divisions among opponents, and use force when necessary. 

Economic diplomacy: Recognizing the importance of economic power in international relations, similar to Kautilya’s focus on a strong economy as a foundation for political influence.