The international system is radically different from the one ruled by the Europeans in the 19th century.
The
international system is radically different from the one ruled by the
Europeans in the 19th century. The balance of power was manageable only
in a system in which interests could be identified clearly and in a
manner that could be divided up without threatening the overall
stability of the system as a whole World Wars I and II proved that the
world had become sufficiently interdependent that it was no longer
possible to talk about a national interest without reference to the
national interest of other states, The US tried to set up an
international system, which we have called the liberal international
system, which was supposed to allow and maximize mutual
interests: theoretically, all nations were presumed to benefit from that
system
The
purpose of that system was to avoid the disarray of the 20th century
and to cultivate the interdependence of nations. It
is, however, showing signs of wear and tear, perhaps even of
disintegration. We do not have an alternative international system in
the wings. There are, perhaps, other countries that would be willing to
lead the world, but none has articulated an alternative system Which
leaves us all in the lurch. I suspect that the world will not have a
replacement for the US or the liberal alternative system over the next
twenty years. But in twenty years you are all going to move into
positions of great responsibility--it will be your world to govern. So I
ask you all this question:
Over
the next 20 years, do you think the world will become more or less
stable? Will the world experience greater or lesser levels of violence?
Will the vast bulk of humanity be better off economically and
socially?
The
essay should be in the same format as the first--750-1000 words and
Your answer must include three (3) specific references to the required
readings and two (2) specific references to articles in the World
Politics Blog which can be accessed at: http://vferraro1971.wordpress.com/.

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