IR Theory Review Assignment

Assignment Description

This assignment is intended to ensure that you fully understand the role of theory in IR and that you understand the major IR theories enough to apply them to international relations and the events that arise in the world.

Learning Outcomes

After successful completion of this assignment, you will be able to:

Describe why we use theory in International Relations
Identify the major IR theories (including Critical Theories)
Describe the main ideas and assertions of the major IR theories (including Critical Theories)
Apply an IR theory to important global issues
Assignment Instructions

Answer the questions below in a Word document. Be sure to number your questions and include the question with your answer. You can use information from the modules, videos, textbook, or any sources that you use for your research. Use the rubric for guidance on ensuring that you answer each question accurately and effectively. Be sure to incorporate the module into your answers. Cite your information using the How to Cite Information from Modules Guide
and Owl Purdue’s MLA Works Cited: Electronic Sources page.

Questions
Explain why theory is important in IR. And choose 1 of the 4 questions below to answer:
How would you explain Realist IR theory to someone who has never heard of it? Give an example of how Realism can be applied to a current event or situation in the world.
How would you explain Liberalist IR theory to someone who has never heard of it? Give an example of how Liberalism can be applied to a current event or situation in the world.
How would you explain Constructivist IR theory to someone who has never heard of it? Give an example of how Constructivism can be applied to a current event or situation in the world.
Choose one Critical Theory that you think helps to explain global inequality between and/or within countries. Describe this theory and why you believe it explains global inequality.