Waltz critique assignment
In a 5 to 7 page paper due in class Thursday September 13, address the following essay question:
In his theoretical discussion of the causes of war, Waltz presents three "images," or levels of analysis. What does Waltz conclude is the most essential level of analysis for studying international relations? Do you agree with his conclusion? If so, carefully detail how you agree with Waltz and what aspects of his argument swayed your opinion. If not, which level of analysis do you prefer? Alternatively, if you believe that it is best to work across two or all three levels of analysis, explain why you believe that it is important to use several levels of analysis to study international relations.
Be sure to organize your paper as a critique of Waltz. In other words,
papers should clearly establish Waltzís position on the levels of analysis
and then the rest of the paper should be the studentís reaction to his
arguments. Make sure that you carefully cite or quote from Waltz to both
explain his position and in your reaction.