Theories and International Relations Essay

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Introduction

International relations theory refers to the study of the theoretical perspective of international relations. It provides a framework which is conceptual upon which analysis of international relations is done. International relations theories can also act like pairs of colored sunglasses which only allows the person wearing it to see what’s relevant to the theory. There are three most prominent theories available - constructivism, liberalism and realism. International relations theories are divided into rationalist and reflectivist theories. Rationalist theories are those that focus on analysis that is principally of state level. Reflectivist theories incorporate the meanings of security in an expanded manner from post-colonial security, gender to class.

International relations theories have a big role in helping policy-makers produce solutions that are effective instead of being regarded as being too abstract. In policy organizations that are foreign, people are not selected by their theories’ quality but by their quality of knowledge and intelligence of a particular area. Theories are usually created to give an understanding of reality of life. A good theory must be consistent, complete, proved by factual evidence, must have the ability of explaining what was confusing in the past, stated clearly and have useful recommendations. Policy and theories are linked. Theories can lead to policies which could help in future innovations in the field of theories. Theories influence policy in terms of diagnosis. This is seen when policy makers have to deal with large amount of information when looking into an issue. With theories, the policy makers will be able to decide on what is relevant and plan efficiently on how the issue can be reacted upon. Theory is also linked to policy through prediction. Policy makers are able to develop a determined view of the world through theories from which they can properly respond to events (Checkel, 1998). However, sometimes theories can make predictions that are false. Prescription is another way theory is linked to policy. When a new policy is imposed by decision makers, they usually expect an outcome. Theories assist them in making choices on what course of action they need to undertake for achievement of results, on setting objectives and goals. Evaluation is another way theories can be linked to policies. This can be done when the undertaken policies are evaluated in every stage with the available theories in mind.

Academics and policy makers have assumptions that differ especially about world-based policymaking. For instance, academics might be distanced from policy making in order to develop knowledge on conclusions across the government.
On the other side, civil servants might develop expertise that is in-depth during policy development process (Cox, 1981). Both may learn from one another on how to understand and influence policy making in everything. However, there may be a barrier like having different languages hence understanding or having a conversation that is meaningful might need translation. There are many ways in which past and current policy theories have been used to impact policy making process. Policy theories’ ideas can be used as a guide to the general…

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…The legislative branch functions to enact the laws of the nation, the executive branch enforces and implements the enacted laws and the judicial branch interprets laws in reference to the American constitution. The separation of powers’ concept states that the constitution of the 40 states should allow division into legislative, executive and judicial branches. However, the branches are separate but equal in terms of power.

The more perfect union examines the development of the constitution of the US from the perspective of James Madison, the chief author. It all began with the trade war problems between Shay’s Rebellion and states. Madison attempts to enlist George Washington’s involvement and aid. Battle is created with the advocates for the anti-federalists like John Dickson and Roger Sherman. He makes an effort of making the senate his ultimate accepted compromise (Jackson, et al., 2019).

Conclusion

International relations theory can be complex to define. It is a theory that seeks to explain past and predict future behavior of a state. However, this definition is still contested by most theorists. Past international relations theories are categorized by their focus on the state, state system or humans as their major conflict source. International relations theories assist one understand how nations and international systems can engage each other and view the world. Realist concepts, liberal and equality-centric strategies are used by international relation experts and diplomats to determine the direction a particular government is taking in terms of political concerns. With the study of the above discussed international relations theories, field….....

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Bibliography

Checkel, Jeffrey T. \"The constructive turn in international relations theory.\" World politics 50, no. 2 (1998): 324-348.

Cox, Robert W. \"Social forces, states and world orders: beyond international relations theory.\" Millennium 10, no. 2 (1981): 126-155.

Hatto, Ronald. \"Theories of International Relations.\" Daedalus 106, no. 3 (1979): 41-60.

Hopf, Ted. \"The promise of constructivism in international relations theory.\" International security 23, no. 1 (1998): 171-200.

Jackson, Richard, Georg Sørensen, and Jørgen Møller. Introduction to international relations: theories and approaches. Oxford University Press, USA, 2019.

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