Compare and contrast realist and liberal theories of international relations. What are the strengths and weaknesses of each theory? In your view, which theory represents a more accurate picture of today's world politics? Provide examples to support your argument.
What will be an ideal response?
The ideal answer should include:
1. Outline the realist and liberal theories of international relations.
2. Compare and contrast the two theories. If possible, students should include discussion of nation states as main actors, the anarchy of the international system, and state self-reliance, on the one hand, and mutually beneficial cooperation, democratic peace, the building of norms, regimes, institutions, etc., on the other hand.
3. Using the key terms mentioned above, expand on the strengths and weaknesses of each theory.
4. Students should utilize the details they have explored to this point in the exercise to outline which theory provides the most accurate picture of today's global politics.
5. Conclude with examples, which might include nations that exemplify each theory. For example, perhaps Denmark on the side of liberal theory, and/or North Korea on the side of realist theory.
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A vote on a bill in the Senate results in a tie. What would likely be the official outcome of the vote on the bill?
A. The bill would be withdrawn and submitted at a later time, when one additional vote could be secured. B. The bill would be killed. C. The president's party would prevail. D. The parties would reach a compromise in the conference committee. E. The leadership would canvass members to change the one vote needed for passage.