International Relations as a Series
of Systems, I
Systems Theory (yes, another theory)
-
system:
set of units that interact in ways that affect other units’ interactions
-
interesting
when properties and behavior of the system differ from properties and behavior
of units
-
emergent
properties of system: system equilibrium out of maximizing or minimizing unit
behavior
-
systems
may produce non-intuitive effects
o
non-additive
o
non-linear
o
un-intended
consequences
-
IR
Approach Independent: realist system theory v. liberal system theory v.
constructivist system theory
‘Automatic’
v. ‘Manual’ Systems
-
intended
organization v. emergent organization of a system
o
balance
of power requires a balancer (manual/intended)
o
balance
of power emerges (automatic/emergent)
Pre-Concert of
-
no
agreement on a balance of power but ‘balances’ emerge
-
multiple
major power wars
-
nil
collective consultation
-
unilateral
action
‘Concert of
-
intent
to avoid multiple major-power wars
o
war
for limited aims by limited means accepted
o
intervention
for internal change opposed
-
principle
of ‘balance of power’ as equilibrium
o
compensate
major parties to territorial changes
o
use
of neutral and buffer states
o
defensive
alliances
-
norm
of consultation
o
consent
of great powers to major territorial
change
o
unilateral
action avoided
o
only
among great powers, not other states
-
legitimacy
of system accepted
o
great
powers initially satisfied
o
relative
v. absolute security
Why does the Concert
breakdown?
Inter-War System/League of Nations
System (1919-1939)
-
permanent
organization to ensure collective security
-
territorial
integrity and political independence explicitly accepted
-
‘world
opinion’ as a constraint on war
Hindrances to the
League
-
too
many & too few members
-
unanimity
in Council
-
no
power beyond economic sanctions
Why does the Inter-War System Collapse?
-
League
weaknesses
-
World
depression and economic competition
-
German
resentment & hypernationalism
-
Lesson
of WWI alliance chain-gang effect
-
Democratization
of foreign policy (liberal & totalitarian)
-
Anti-Communist
v. balance of power strategies