Understanding the fundamental concepts that explain how states interact in the international system.
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Card 1
The government of a sovereign state
Explanation
Most theories treat the government of a sovereign state as the central actor that makes foreign policy choices.
Common mistake
People often assume organizations like the UN are above states in authority, but states still control them.
Card 2
State sovereignty over internal affairs
Explanation
Westphalian sovereignty means other states should not interfere in a state's domestic matters.
Common mistake
It is sometimes confused with complete isolation, but sovereign states still choose to cooperate.
Card 3
Respect for existing state borders
Explanation
Territorial integrity protects states from invasion and forced loss of land.
Card 4
Protection and advancement of its own priorities
Explanation
National interest refers to what leaders see as essential for their state’s security and well-being.
Common mistake
People often think national interest is only military security, ignoring economic and political goals.
Card 5
Non-state actors
Explanation
Non-state actors include NGOs, firms, terrorist groups, and others that affect international outcomes.
Common mistake
Many assume only states matter, overlooking how corporations and NGOs shape global decisions.
Card 6
Managing relations through dialogue instead of force
Explanation
Diplomacy uses negotiation, communication, and compromise to handle disagreements peacefully.
Card 7
Bilateral relations
Explanation
Bilateral relations cover political, economic, and security ties between one state and another single state.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes label any meeting of leaders as multilateral, even when only two states are involved.
Card 8
Multilateral relations
Explanation
Multilateral relations occur in forums like the UN, where many states coordinate policies.
Card 9
An alliance
Explanation
Alliances commit members to assist one another, usually if one is attacked.
Common mistake
Some think alliances are always permanent, but many change or end over time.
Card 10
Soft power
Explanation
Soft power comes from culture, values, and policies that others want to follow.
Common mistake
People often think soft power excludes any government action, but official cultural programs can build it.
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