In an 8 to 12 page paper, answer the following question:
In the last two sections of this class we have debated the capabilities of a range of theories for the study of international relations. This take home exam seeks to test you on your comprehension of the material and the ability to reach your own independent conclusions regarding the usefulness of the different theoretical approaches. In order to do so, address the following issues:
1. Present the core aspects of "Realism," "Liberalism," and at least one of the "radical" theory challengers (Marxism, Dependency, "Third World IR Theory," Critical Theory, Postmodernism, or Feminism). As Kegley (p.3) recognizes, the definitions of these different theories are controversial, so you should present what you believe are the important defining aspects of each theoretical tradition.
2. Based on the similarities and differences between the theories that you have just outlined, if you were forced to choose between the theoretical perspectives, which theory would you prefer to use to study international relations in the current post-Cold War era? Be sure to carefully justify your selection. Alternatively, if you do not think that it is necessary to choose between the different theories, but instead believe that the study of international relations would be better served by blending these different approaches together in to one hybrid theory - explain how this theory would be constructed. Or, if you prefer, explain why different theories may be necessary to explain different issues, thus precluding the capability of international relations to rely on one overarching theoretical perspective. Whichever approach you choose, be sure to draw on competing arguments for the similarities or differences of theories to support or contrast with your argument.
3. Do you believe that this theory will always be the best perspective to employ in the future? In other words, explain the degree to which you believe that your theoretical choice in generalizable across different situations versus how time-bound your theoretical choice is. If your theory choice changes according the circumstances, be sure to explain what situations you believe that the different theories explain the best.
4. Finally, given your theory choice, if the policy prescriptions of this perspective were followed for organizing international relations what would the international system look like 100 years from now?
No reading outside of class texts is required, but students should be sure to back their arguments by carefully quoting or citing the material read for the class.