Neoliberalism - Book chapter Sterling-Folker

10 important questions on Neoliberalism - Book chapter Sterling-Folker

What is the central concern of neoliberalism in International Relations, according to the book chapter by Sterling-Folker? And what has made this easier in the 20th century?

How to achieve cooperation among states and other actors in the international system. Historical developments have made it easier for states to cooperate.

On what point concerning the international system does neoliberalism agree with the realist tradition in IR? How is this concept still different in both traditions, also concerning cooperation?

The anarchy of the international system and the the desirability of cooperation. However, according to realists anarchy is a condition that will live on forever, because of the human drive for power, and, therefore, it is not likely that states will cooperate. Neoliberalists see anarchy as a vacuum which can be filled by human-created process and institutions, which makes it more likely for states to cooperate.

How did this difference between the neoliberal and realist view on anarchy emerge in the 20th century?

Two historical developments according to neoliberalists:
  1. Increasing interdependence: involves the relationship of mutual dependence in which actions and interests are intertwined;
  2. The USA as hegemon after WWII causes stability.
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What characterises a formal institution in neoliberalism? Name an example of a contemporary formal institution.

A formal institution is a multilateral organization, which means it is agreed upon or participated in by three or more parties. The institution has a physical location. An example of a formal institution is the United Nations.

What characterises an informal institution or international regime (as defined by Krasner) in neoliberalism? Name an example of a contemporary informal institution.

An informal institution or international regime consists of sets of explicit and implicit principles, norms and rules. An example of an informal institution is a cultural tradition.

What are the two barriers to effective cooperation between states in the international system, according to neoliberalists? How can these barriers be overcome?

  1. Lack of information/transparency
  2. The incentive to 'cheat' on one's partner or the fear of being cheated --> mistrust.


However, neoliberalists found that repetition of meetings and future expectation of further cooperation makes actors less scared of being cheated on and to cheat.

What are the 3 broad challenges in international institutional design, according to the book chapter on neoliberalism by Sterling-Folker?

  1. Bargaining
  2. Defection
  3. Autonomy

What does regime theory in IR mean and what does it assume?

Regime theory argues that international institutions or regimes affect the behavior of states or other international actors. It assumes that cooperation is possible in the anarchic system of states, as regimes are, by definition, instances of international cooperation.

What does regime theory in neoliberalism examine?

Regime theory examines the effectiveness of international institutions.

What are the features of liberalism?

  • Right to own property;
  • Possibility of progress;
  • Multilateralism.

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