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PSC 350.001: Transnational Politics
Hans Peter Schmitz, Spring 2008
Important terms in IR theory
Dependent and independent variable(s): In the social sciences, the dependent variable signifies what is to
be explained (examples: war, peace). An independent variable is used to explain a certain outcome
(examples: anarchy, institutions).
Realpolitik, power politics, Hobbesian world: terms used interchangeably with “realism.”
Anarchy: Neorealist theory postulates that the international system is characterized by anarchy, i.e. the
absence of a higher authority (not the same as “chaos”). Anarchy creates the basis for a security dilemma and
the need for all states to focus on their survival.
Balance of power: For realists, the international system naturally gravitates towards a balance among the
major powers. States will strive to balance each other by arming themselves (internal balancing) and entering
military alliances (external balancing). The most stable system is bipolar (Example: the Cold War), the least
stable is unipolar (Example: after the end of the Cold War). Somewhat in-between is a multi-polar system
(before 1945).
Mercantilism: Economic theory based on realist ideas (focus on relative gains and security).
Interdependence: Institutionalists argue that interdependence mitigates the effects of anarchy and creates
more cooperative arrangements among states. Interdependence is reflected in the cross-border trade of goods,
advanced communication, the exchange of ideas, and the travel of people.
Reciprocity: Institutionalists argue that states can learn to cooperate with one another by using strategies of
reciprocity (cooperation or non-cooperation; tit-for-tat).
Institutions: Help states to overcome obstacles to cooperation (example: prisoners’ dilemma) by providing
information (1), lowering transaction costs (2), preventing “free-riding” (3), offering mediation (4).
Distributional conflicts: A term derived from game theory describing conflicts among two parties which
center on the equal distribution of a given good.
Shadow of the future/iterated game: A term derived from game theory describing the repeated interaction
of the same players. Game theorists have shown that repeated interactions among players increase the
likelihood of cooperation and reciprocal strategizing.
Absolute and relative gains: Neorealists argue that cooperation among states is rare and confined to
instances, where everyone gains the same amount (so that the power balance is not upset, relative gains).
Institutionalists agree that relative gains matter, but maintain that states also take absolute gains or can
overcome limits to cooperation imposed by the logic of relative gains.
Cooperation: Deliberate efforts to coordinate and adjust behavior among parties in order to solve (potential)
conflicts. Cooperation is not the same as harmony.