Question

Describe three "levels of analysis" used by international relations scholars and give an example for each level of an explanation for an international event that emphasizes factors at that level: State.

Answer 1

International relations scholars analyze international events and decisions at three levels: the individual level, focusing on leaders; the state level, emphasizing internal dynamics and policies; and the systemic level, considering broader state interactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

International relations scholars use three levels of analysis to understand and explain international events: the individual level, the state level, and the systemic or global level.

Individual Level

At the individual level, analysis focuses on leaders' decisions within a state and potential constraints imposed by the state itself. For instance, consider the Cuban Missile Crisis, an international event where individual decision-making, particularly by President Kennedy and Premier Khrushchev, played a critical role in resolving the standoff.

State Level

The state level of analysis examines the internal dynamics and foreign policies of states. A notable example is China's implementation of the 'One Belt, One Road' initiative, which represents a state policy aiming to expand economic and strategic influence.

Systemic/Global Level

Finally, the systemic or global level of analysis considers the broad interactions between states within the international system. The formation of the European Union, for example, illustrates how state interactions can lead to regional integration and collective policy-making on a systemic level.