Describe realism and neorealism. How do the two perspectives differ?
What will be an ideal response?
The ideal answer should include:
1. Realism and neorealism are paradigms of international politics. Realism assumes that states, like people, are naturally disposed to base their behavior on self-interest, and the core of this interest is survival. Realism focuses on the security dilemma: There is no supreme authority, no transborder institution, and no international rules that will necessarily protect the state from predatory behavior by other actors in the international system.
2. Neorealism agrees with realism on the assumptions noted above. Where it differs is in its emphasis of structural factors and anarchy as key variables. It is these factors that drive states' behavior as opposed to states' nature, which is emphasized by (classical) realists. Neorealism also takes a broader view of power, paying attention to all types of power (economic, diplomatic etc.).
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Which of the following is true of politics in the U.S. post World War II?
A. The Republican Party lost its previously solid support in the South. B. The Republican Party gained a stranglehold on elected offices in Maine and New Hampshire. C. Former Confederate states were inclined to predominantly vote for Democratic candidates. D. The number of Republicans decreased in southern state legislatures. E. The Democratic Party lost its previously solid support in the South.
A government attempt to stimulate the economy through increased spending is most likely to have which of these undesirable effects?
a. a drop in productivity b. a rise in the inflation rate c. a shrinking of the middle class d. an increase in the unemployment rate