WHAT IS INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS?

International relations is an academic discipline that focuses on the study of the

interaction of the actors in international politics, including states and non-state actors,
such as the United Nations (UN), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World
Bank. It is also the study of interconnectedness of politics, economics, and law on a
global level.
 
Theories of International Relations
1. Realist Theory- they do believe that states are in constant struggle for power. According
to them Security can only be achieved in such a system by maintaining power. States can
be reasonably assumed acting in pursuit of their individual interest. The main goal or
interest that they are always aiming to win is power among any other states in the
international society. States here as the primary actor of international law are never sure of
the intentions of other states towards them, that is why the only thing for them if on how
they are to survive and that is for them to remain in power.  

2. Institutionalist Theory- in international relations they believe that interplay of states in the

different institutions is an important act for them to achieve their goals. We note that the
relationship of states are products of their interaction, not only by the states but also by the
various institutions and hierarchical structures in Global Political Sphere. States here are
not alone in fulfilling its goal rather they interact with the other actors of international society
in order for them to achieve its goal.

3. Liberalist/Neoliberalist Theory- It holds that human nature is basically good and that

innate goodness makes societal progress possible. Liberals also place faith in international
law and legal instruments to settle disputes. They tend to go towards the right path for them
to achieve something. This theory proceeds from the assumption that the States are
geared towards GAINS and PROFITS, therefore, relations are often dependent on whether
the same would be profitable or not. If they get something from an agreement then they
would take the chance to enter into that agreement to achieve their goal of gaining
something.

4. Democratic Peace Theory- Democratic States are hesitant to go to war with other
Democratic States. “Respect of one’s Sovereign Rights over the Land” is their main
ideology. For them peaceful way of resolving conflicts are seen as morally superior to
violent behavior, and this attitude is transferred to international relations. Mutual gain from
economic cooperation and interdependence also contribute to peace 

5. This provides that the global system is likely to be STABLE when controlled by a single
State which would be known as the “HEGEMON”. “The concept of Hegemons ruling the
world” wherein they also provide order similar to that of the central government in the
international system. Although the hegemon creates the system for its own benefits other
states tolerate or accept the system because the hegemon provides public goods.