International Relations Midterm Assignment

Before you begin this assignment, please review the course materials from the first three weeks of class with a special focus on the three mainstream theoretical perspectives: realism, liberalism and constructivism. Please pay particular attention to the definition of each and avoid pairing them with domestic perceptions of conservatives, liberals, etc. I also recommend reviewing the week 2 forum’s Wrap up.  While you may select an outside source to present a world event, it is important to study and incorporate the week 2 readings to explain IR theories. Outside sources on IR theories can be quite confusing for students new to International Relations. 

For this assignment, you will choose a world event. You can choose one of the ones listed below or come up with your own. I suggest that you message me if you choose your own event.   Explain which states are involved, if there are any non-state actors, (for non-state actors’ definitions, see Week One Lessons), international governmental organizations or non-governmental organizations involved in the conflict. Also, identify a few of the key individuals involved.  Then lastly, and here’s the tricky part, decide which theory would best explain the event and explain your choice. Be sure to define the theory.  Lastly, remember that IR theories are not characteristics or states or processes. Think of them as guidelines that help leaders make foreign policy decisions. For example:  Instead of claiming that North Korea was a realist, think about its leader as a realist.

Your response should be 3 – 5 paragraphs. Remember that one paragraph is about a 1/2 of a page long.  Use 12 pitch, Times New Roman font. The paper should not be more than 3 double-spaced pages, including References. 

Important: the US southern border wall or other immigration matters are domestic policies. We don’t cover them in this course. Please get in touch with me if you consider a topic other than the ones listed. 

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

Terrorist attacks in France

Russian hacking of US computers

The Korean War

The Cold War