INTERNATIONAL POLITICS Meaning and
Definition
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International politics refers to the field of study and practice concerning the political relations and interactions between sovereign states and other international actors. It encompasses the way in which states, as well as non-state actors like multinational corporations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international institutions, engage and cooperate with each other on various global issues.
At its core, international politics explores the complex dynamics that shape world affairs, including the competition for power, the negotiation and resolution of conflicts, and the pursuit of national interests and global cooperation. It encompasses a wide range of areas, such as diplomacy, foreign policy, international law, global economics, military alliances, and the role of international organizations like the United Nations.
International politics involves the analysis and understanding of the forces that drive global affairs, including the influences of power, ideology, culture, and economics. It examines the motivations and actions of states and other actors in the international arena, with the aim of explaining and predicting their behavior.
Moreover, international politics also highlights the interconnectedness and interdependence of nations in the modern globalized world. It focuses on issues that have transnational implications, such as climate change, human rights, terrorism, economic globalization, and the spread of technology, and how these issues impact the relations between states.
Overall, international politics seeks to provide insights into the complexities of the global system, to facilitate cooperation among nations, and to promote peace, stability, and development on a global scale.
Etymology of INTERNATIONAL POLITICS
The word "international politics" has its roots in the combination of two terms:
1. International: The term "international" derives from the Latin words "inter", meaning "between" or "among", and "natio", meaning "nation". It first appeared in English in the early 19th century, with the concept of "interstate relations" or "relations between nations".
2. Politics: The term "politics" comes from the Greek word "polis", which means "city-state". In ancient Greece, it referred to activities and affairs related to the governance of the city-states. Over time, its meaning expanded to include broader discussions about power, governing systems, and decision-making processes. In English, the term "politics" emerged in the 15th century, referring to the activities associated with government and public affairs.
