Assignment #1

Critical Reflection Writing Assignment

Due Date: 23 October 2008

15% of total mark

Choose and answer one of the following questions.  Answer the question with reference to at least one relevant reading from the course and from your own critical analysis, perspective and reaction.  Incorporate, where possible, class lectures, seminar discussions and relevant audio or video we have looked at.  No additional research outside of course material and lectures is required, but you can make reference to examples if relevant.  Suggested length guideline is 6 pages, double-spaced with normal margins.  Feel free to use double-sided paper if you prefer. 

1. Political realism makes explicit assumptions about human nature.  What are the core assumptions about human nature in realism?  Are these assumptions valid?  As Steven Pinker has noted, however, social science typically avoids notions of human nature as fixed and unchanging.  In your view does Realism present a useful notion of human nature? 

2. Liberalism has often formed the ‘loyal opposition’ in theoretical debates in International Relations.  In your view, does liberalism present an effective and appealing alternative to political realism?  In addition, is it possible to achieve a ‘full’ vision of liberalism in IR?  Liberalism, generally, has often been associated with justice, civil/political rights, individualism, equality, the free market, and cooperation.  Can all of these goals be achieved at the same time?

3. Social constructivism poses an alternative to mainstream theories in IR.  How would you describe that alternative?  Does social constructivism pose useful questions about the field?  In your answer, make sure to describe the ways in which social constructivism differs from mainstream approaches.

4. Feminism and Marxism raise questions about forms of inequality and exclusion which are not often discussed in mainstream approaches to International Relations.  In your view, do mainstream theories in IR neglect issues of gender and class?  If so, what are the consequences?  Answer this question with reference to either Marxist or feminist approaches.

5. ‘Post-colonial’ approaches to IR remind us of the importance and legacy of empire as well as the enduring ways in which we construct and understand ‘difference’.  What, in your view, do post-colonial approaches add to our understanding of international relations?