Chapter 2 Essay Questions

Theory is Everywhere

These questions are designed to help you understand this chapter’s concepts and express your understanding in your own words.

Please note that this exercise is for self-study, and your instructor will not be able to see the answer you have written.

1. This chapter highlights five major theories to explain global politics. Write a 300-word essay making a case for which of these theories best examine and explains the current state of global politics today. You do not have to situate yourself with the theoretical camp that you are arguing for. The important thing is that you are making a case to demonstrate that your theory has the best explanatory power.

Why is your theory relevant today in explaining current global politics?
What are the major strengths of your theory?
Does it complement or refute major claims on global politics?
Who are the major actors? What role do they play, and why?

2. In this chapter and throughout the book, there is much discussion about the Global North and Global South. Write an essay to evaluate the current geopolitical issues in the Global North and Global South.

Which theories best examine major tensions between the Global North and the Global South?
Are they adequate enough to explain the realities of the Global North and South?
What is lacking in these theories?
Do you think that the tensions between the Global North and Global South can be resolved? If so, how?