This week sparked the most interested from me in relation to our discussion of IR theories. Constructivism seems to be the theory that I find easiest to relate to. I think that realism is too rigid to provide the progress that new states need and liberalism tends to be too individualistic which, in turn, can also inhibit growth. In my mind, constructivism seemed to offer a happy balance between these two.
Our trip to the Delegation of the European Union offered a great perspective into the thinking of the European Union on international affairs. It was a perfect contrast to the trip to the State Department the week earlier. In my opinion, the differences between the way Americans think about global politics and the way Europeans think about global politics is a fascinating topic. The origins of the cultural systems that provide the foundations for decision making between these two groups could prove to be a deciding factor in the way our world will function and change in the coming decades and centuries. In addition to hearing the European perspective on global affairs, finding another possible internship opportunity was a great thing.
I enjoyed class on Thursday more than that on Monday. Simulations seem to grab my attention more and offer greater opportunities for everyone to get involved with each other. Discussions can sometimes be polarized, with a certain few dominating the conversation. While the simulation was not perfect, I did notice that more people got involved and nearly everyone was heard from. Sure, having a ship from Stargate be the “alien” was a bit farfetched, but learning about IR theory using an allegory seemed to have made things make more sense to me.
Andrew brings up a great point about the contrast between the State Department and the EU. It is interesting how the EU is always looking for more opportunities to expand and grow. Whereas, the State Department is focusing heavily on maintaing positive relations and communication between the territory the United States has already accumulated and other countries. Both institutions focus on methods of communication between countries to attempt to have the over arching theme of peaceful relations despite cultural differences.
ReplyDeleteDespite some of the flaws of the EU, it is nonetheless a powerful institution shown through the ability of it to create a single market through a standardised system of laws. This market applies to all the member states, and ensures the free movement of people, goods, services, and capital. How one institution has the power to take several different economic policies and backgrounds of its member and unite them all under one common market is remarkable.
I agree with what you said about the in-class simulation. I definitely noticed a lot more participation and I also feel more comfortable saying what I feel in relation to a real-life scenario, because I can imagine what is going to happen in my head. I feel like realists get a bad rep too- they seem to be the war hawks in the midst of doves, and constructivism kind of mirrors a little bit of both. I hadn't thought about juxtaposing the visit to the State Department and the visit to the European Union. The fact that one focused completely on domestic affairs and the other was solely about the international community was definitely a boon to understanding how the two work together in a more cohesive manner- so thank you for bringing that up!
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