The evolution of concepts in international relations is one of the important aspects of the evolution of this field as an independent scientific branch. International relations, as the study of relations between governments, international organizations, non-governmental organizations and other actors, has always been accompanied by many changes and developments over time.
Kabul 24: These developments have been formed under the influence of various factors such as changes in the world system, technological developments, political, economic and cultural developments. In this article, we will examine the evolution of basic concepts in international relations from the past to the present.
1. Realism and liberalism: two dominant classical theories
In the early 20th century, two main theories dominated thinking in international relations: realism and liberalism. Realism is based on the principle that states, as the main players in the international scene, seek to maintain their power and security and are in a constant state of competition and conflict with each other.
Realists believe that the international system is anarchic, in the sense that no supra-state body can supervise states, and therefore the logic of power governs international politics.
In contrast, liberalism emphasizes the importance of cooperation between governments. Liberals believe that peace and sustainable cooperation can be achieved through international institutions, international law and free trade. They believe that the common interests of states can lead to international cooperation instead of confrontation.
These two theories remained as the main frameworks of analysis in international relations for decades, but global developments, such as the Cold War and its end, caused a revision of these concepts and new theories emerged.
2. Constructivism: the role of culture and identity
With the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War, the limitations of traditional theories became more visible and a space was created for newer theories. Constructivism is one of these new theories that emphasizes the importance of ideas, norms, culture and identity in international relations. Constructivists believe that international realities are formed not only by material structures (such as military or economic power), but also by mental and social factors.
In other words, constructivists believe that what governments do in the international arena depends on their understanding of themselves and others. This theory became more important especially after the Cold War and the identity and cultural changes that occurred in the world system. According to structuralists, national identity, international norms and political discourses are as important as military and economic power.
3. Globalization and the emergence of non-state actors
One of the most important recent developments in international relations is globalization. Globalization refers to the process by which economies, cultures, and societies are becoming more interconnected globally. This phenomenon has not only changed international economic relations, but also affected the concept of power, security and sovereignty.
With globalization, new actors such as non-governmental organizations (NGOs), multinational corporations and international institutions have become more important. These non-state actors, previously under-regarded in traditional analyzes of international relations, now play an active role in solving international crises, promoting human rights, and combating climate change. Therefore, the concept of **state sovereignty**, which was previously known as the absolute power of states within their own territory, is now being challenged.
4. Climate change and human security
Another concept that has gained importance in recent decades is human security. In the past, security was mainly considered to mean maintaining the territorial integrity of states and preventing foreign military threats. But with the increase of global crises such as climate change, epidemics, poverty and economic instability, human security has been proposed as a more comprehensive concept. Human security includes not only physical security, but also economic, health, environmental and social security.
Climate change has become one of the biggest challenges in international relations. This phenomenon, which occurs beyond national borders, requires global cooperation and challenges traditional concepts such as sovereignty and national security. For example, threats from rising sea levels or extreme storms require an approach that goes beyond military security and requires international cooperation and collective action.
5. The role of technology in changing concepts of power
Technology is also one of the important factors that has influenced the evolution of concepts in international relations. While military and economic power are still the main components of government power, cyber and information power have also emerged as new components of power.
Cyber power, which includes the ability to launch cyber attacks, defend critical infrastructure, and use information as a weapon, has become a central issue in international politics.
In addition, social media and new communication technologies play an important role in changing the behavior of governments and shaping international public opinion. These technologies allow individuals and non-governmental organizations to play an active role in international developments and even put pressure on governments.
conclusion
Developments in the concepts of international relations indicate the extensive changes that have occurred in the world systemFrom the classic theories of realism and liberalism to the emergence of constructivism, globalization and new challenges such as climate change and cyber power, all of them indicate that international relations is a dynamic and evolving scientific field.
In the future, with continuous changes in the international environment, this discipline will continue to develop and review its concepts.
Saboor Bayat
