International Relations Overview

Introduction to International Relations (IR)

• New Field: Emerged in the early 20th century, post-World War I.
• Academic Study: Gained prominence in universities after World War II.
• Justification: Continually questioning its distinction from politics and history.
• Unique Identity: The LSE has a dedicated department for IR, unlike most universities that place it within politics.

Contribution of IR to Political Science

• Application of Concepts: Employs various theories and methods to study international politics.
• Diversity: Multiple approaches and methodologies enrich the field.
• Focus on Interconnectedness: Examines how states and regions interact globally, not just within their own territories.

Complexities in International Relations

• Transnational Issues: Includes multinational companies, smugglers, refugees, and international dynamics.
• Focus Beyond the State: Studies relationships and influences that extend beyond territorial jurisdictions.
• Key Topics:
  • International migration
  • Cross-border pollution
  • Causes and implications of war and violence.

Violence vs. War in IR

• Terminology Shift: Preference for "violence" over "war" to encompass a broader range of conflicts (e.g., internal conflict, terrorism).
• Objective: Identify causes for international events and understand trends beyond surface-level reporting.

Foreign Policy and Domestic Politics

• State-centric Focus: Most IR scholarship revolves around foreign policy as a reflection of state interests.
• Tension: Politicians often prioritize local interests, potentially neglecting necessary international cooperation.

Evolution of IR Perspectives

• Critique of State-Centric IR: Scholars are questioning the narrow focus on foreign policy.
• Inclusivity: Acknowledges voices and perspectives typically marginalized in traditional studies.

Cooperation and Integration in IR

• Historical Context: Long-standing conflicts (e.g., between France and Germany) transformed by processes of cooperation.
• Significance of Integration: European integration as a model for resolving historical animosities.

Normative Approaches in IR

• Tension Between Reality and Ideals: Balancing the understanding of the world as it is versus how it should be.
• Scholarship vs. Emotion: Importance of maintaining objectivity while acknowledging personal biases.

Academic and Practical Pursuits in IR

• Two Student Groups:
  1. Those seeking intellectual understanding of global events.
  2. Aspiring professionals aiming to improve diplomacy and international relations.

Cultural Reflections on IR

• Star Trek Example: Illustrates systemic factors of state interactions, reflecting on both idealism and realism in IR.
• Divisions in IR:
  • Realists: Focus on managing conflict and viewing international relations as inherently conflictual.
  • Idealists: Believe in the potential for progress, collaboration, and global unity.

Future of International Relations

• Open Future: The possibility of political unity is uncertain but remains an aspiration.
• Continued Relevance: IR will persist as long as differences and conflicts exist, indicating a lack of universal human society.