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All 11 Flashcards — Liberalism
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Question
What is liberalism?
Answer
The theory that cooperation between states is possible and that trade, democracy, law and institutions can build a more peaceful, rule-based world.
Question
What are liberalism's four main pillars?
Answer
Trade (interdependence brings peace), institutions (IGOs build trust), democracy (the democratic peace) and international law.
Question
How does liberalism differ from realism?
Answer
Both accept there is no world government, but liberals argue states can still cooperate through interest, rules and institutions — not just compete for power.
Question
What is the 'democratic peace'?
Answer
The idea that democracies rarely go to war with one another.
Question
Why do liberals say trade brings peace?
Answer
Economically linked states have too much to lose from war, so interdependence makes conflict less likely.
Question
Why is the EU a good example of liberalism?
Answer
Old enemies like France and Germany bound their economies and institutions together so tightly that war between them became almost unthinkable.
Question
What kept peace between France and Germany in the EU?
Answer
Trade and shared institutions — cooperation and rules, not a balance of military power.
Question
Does liberalism take non-state actors seriously?
Answer
Yes — IGOs, NGOs, companies and individuals all shape global politics, not just states.
Question
What is the main strength of liberalism?
Answer
It explains real cooperation (EU, UN, trade) and fits an interdependent, connected world.
Question
What is the main criticism of liberalism?
Answer
It can be too optimistic — great powers still use force, and institutions can be ignored by the strong.
Question
Which theory is liberalism's main rival?
Answer
Realism — where liberals see room for cooperation, realists see a dangerous self-help world.
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Topic 1.7 hub
Theoretical perspectives
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