What is the Security Dilemma in Offensive Realism?
A situation where actions by a state to increase its security (e.g., armament) lead to increased insecurity in other states, prompting arms races and tensions.
What does Mearsheimer mean by 'Anarchy' in the international system?
The lack of a central authority to enforce rules or resolve disputes, leading to self-help behavior by states
Why is hegemony a key concept in Offensive Realism?
Mearsheimer argues that states seek to maximize power to become regional or global hegemons as a way to ensure security.
Define 'Soft Power.'
The ability to shape the preferences of others through appeal and attraction rather than coercion or payment, often using culture, values, and policies.
What is the 'Transfer of Power'?
The movement of power from one state or actor to another, often seen in global leadership shifts.
Explain the 'Diffusion of Power.'
The spread of power among a larger number of actors, including non-state actors and smaller states, reducing the dominance of traditional powers.
What are examples of Hard Power tools?
Military force, economic sanctions, and threats of action.
What is 'External Sovereignty'?
The recognition of a state's independence and control by other states.
Define 'Internal Sovereignty.'
The state's authority and ability to govern its population and territory without interference.
What makes a government or institution legitimate?
Acceptance and recognition by the people and international community, often based on legal, moral, or democratic principles.
What does Jus ad bellum refer to?
The conditions under which it is justifiable to go to war, such as self-defense or protecting human rights.
Define Jus in bello.
The ethical rules of conduct during warfare, including proportionality and the protection of non-combatants.
What is Jus post bellum?
The principles for post-war justice, such as reconstruction and reconciliation.
What is a 'Nation-State'?
A state whose borders coincide with a distinct national group.
Define 'Stateless Nations.'
Ethnic or cultural groups without a sovereign state, such as the Kurds.
What is state fragility?
A condition where a state is unable to provide basic functions or maintain authority, often measured by the Fragile State Index.
What is Positive Peace?
The presence of social justice, equality, and the absence of structural violence.
Define Negative Peace.
The absence of direct violence or conflict, but underlying tensions or injustices remain.
What is a key perspective on the Israel-Hamas conflict?
The conflict involves territorial disputes, historical grievances, and ideological divides, with debates on statehood and the legitimacy of violence.
What role does Iran play in the region?
Iran supports groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, challenging Israel's security and influencing regional dynamics.
Name the main factors affecting development.
Political stability, environmental resources, economic policies, social equity, and institutional strength.
Why is Third World Debt significant for global development?
Debt burdens hinder economic growth, trap developing countries in cycles of poverty, and limit their investment in infrastructure and services.
What are the debates around the legitimacy of violence by non-state actors?
They center on whether such actions are justified by self-determination or human rights violations, versus their impact on civilian populations and global stability.
How do wellbeing indicators differ from economic development indicators?
Wellbeing indicators (e.g., Happy Planet Index) focus on quality of life, while economic development indicators (e.g., GDP) measure financial growth.
Can development be quantitatively measured?
Perspectives differ, with some emphasizing qualitative factors like culture and equality, while others rely on quantitative data like HDI or GDP.
What does HDI measure?
Human Development Index measures life expectancy, education, and income.
What is the Fragile State Index?
An index assessing a state's vulnerability to collapse based on social, economic, and political indicators.
What are the key perspectives on the current conflict in Haiti?
The conflict stems from political instability, gang violence, and international intervention debates, with calls for sustainable development and governance reform.
What was Haiti known for during the colonial period?
Haiti, then Saint-Domingue, was a French colony and one of the wealthiest due to its sugar, coffee, and slave-driven economy.
When did Haiti gain independence, and why was it significant?
Haiti declared independence in 1804 after a successful slave revolt, becoming the first independent Black-led republic and the first to abolish slavery.
What financial burden did Haiti face after independence?
Haiti was forced to pay reparations to France for lost "property" (including enslaved people), plunging the country into debt.
How did foreign interventions shape Haiti's history?
The U.S. occupied Haiti from 1915–1934, influencing its economy and politics, and later imposed trade restrictions and sanctions.
What has contributed to ongoing political instability in Haiti?
Weak governance, corruption, lack of infrastructure, and frequent leadership crises have fueled instability.
How has deforestation affected Haiti?
Extensive deforestation has led to soil erosion, reduced agricultural productivity, and increased vulnerability to natural disasters.
What are key economic issues in Haiti?
Haiti faces extreme poverty, unemployment, and dependence on foreign aid.
How has Third World Debt affected Haiti?
Ongoing debt repayment limits resources for development and deepens economic challenges.
What are the major social issues in Haiti?
Limited access to healthcare, education, clean water, and sanitation contribute to low living standards and poor public health.
What sparked Haiti’s recent political crisis?
The assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021 led to a power vacuum and intensified gang violence.
How have gangs influenced the current situation in Haiti?
Armed gangs control large areas, disrupt daily life, and challenge the authority of the government.
How has the international community responded to Haiti’s crises?
Responses include foreign aid, peacekeeping missions, and debates over military interventions or humanitarian assistance.
What criticisms exist of international aid to Haiti?
Critics argue aid often bypasses local institutions, fosters dependency, and fails to address systemic issues.
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