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All 11 Flashcards — Political leaders
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Question
What is a political leader as an actor?
Answer
An individual who holds or shapes political power — often a head of state or head of government.
Question
Where does a leader's power come from?
Answer
From office (formal position), personal skill and charisma, and the decisions they make.
Question
What is charisma?
Answer
A personal magnetism that inspires people and wins loyalty — one source of a leader's power.
Question
What is personal diplomacy?
Answer
When a leader personally builds relationships and support with other countries, e.g. through speeches and meetings.
Question
What limits a leader's power?
Answer
Institutions and law, other actors (parties, courts, allies), and circumstances they did not choose.
Question
Why is Zelensky a good example?
Answer
In 2022 he stayed and used personal diplomacy to rally dozens of countries to support Ukraine against Russia.
Question
What is agency?
Answer
The power of an individual to make a difference through their own choices.
Question
What is structure?
Answer
The systems and conditions (institutions, economies, history) that shape and limit what people can do.
Question
What is the agency vs structure debate?
Answer
Do leaders shape events (agency), or do circumstances and systems shape leaders (structure)? Usually both.
Question
Can one leader shape global politics?
Answer
Yes — through decisions and personal diplomacy — but always within limits set by circumstances.
Question
What is the balanced view of leaders?
Answer
Leaders make real choices (agency) but always within structures — the two work together.
Read the notes
Full study notes for Political leaders
Topic 1.1 hub
Framing global politics
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Global Politics exam skills
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