Liberalism: Unavoidable Cooperation

Over the course of this class, we have focused on four main theories for viewing the different facets of world politics: realism, liberalism, radicalism, and constructivism. Each theory has its own merits and appeals to my way of thinking for distinct reasons. I appreciate the attempted focus on rationale and “calling things what they are” attitude of realism. Realists do not attempt to sugarcoat how they see the anarchic system at work. They acknowledge the “dog eat dog” mentality and account for it when trying to act in the interest of their state. Also, I understand the argument that radicals have against our economic system. I have seen the exploitation of the have-not’s for the profit of the elites in several different contexts. Indeed, I find it understandable that they would feel that the economy is the main factor at fault. It does regulate a lot of interaction between states. Constructivism raises valid points as well. It is worth it to consider how much of what we believe about the world around us is what we believe, simply, because we have been taught so by others.
If I have to pick one theory that matches my line of thinking the most it would be liberalism. Biblically, I cannot agree that human nature is inherently good, but I do see societies making progress. The main tenet of the liberal understanding of the world that I agree with is that this progress is accomplished by cooperation between the different actors. There is an aspect of influencing others on every level. This tug and pull of interest could result in competition, but we are too intertwined for us to succeed that way. This can be seen on the individual, state, and international system level of analysis.
I am beginning from where all activity and pro...

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...here. Such cooperation within organizations is necessary because there are issues that no one country can handle on their own. That principle extends to all the shared values.
The liberal perspective seems to be the most successful understanding of the systems we cover. Whether or not human nature is considered inherently good, humans do desire the world to be a better place, if not for everyone involved, for themselves. We desire for progress to be made, and that progress cannot happen without cooperation. The influence that the different actors have on each other, which can be seen at every level, is too great for the “dog eat dog mentality” to be validated. Whatever “dog” that is left on top would still have bites taken out of him. As intertwined as we are, cooperation should be the natural result. I believe it is the only way to function in our global system.