St Cloud State University Introduction to World Politics Discussion
Please answer as completely and as thoroughly each of these questions. There is no page limit, so make sure you take as much space as you need to put forth the most comprehensive answers you can.
1-Of all the theories of International Relations that we discussed, which one do you believe best describes the reality of the world we live in today? Briefly summarize that theory, then explain how and why you believe it is the best descriptor of our current world reality.
2-We saw in Smedley Butler’s opinion and description of wars how they benefit only the rich by making them richer and the poor kids lose their lives fighting these wars. Can we ever have a war that is not going to make the rich richer and that is not going to be fought by the kids that come from poor and low income families? If the answer is “yes” or “no” please explain how and why.
3-Describe the nature of the relationship between the Truman Administration and the bankers on Wall Street. Explain the role these bankers played in U.S. foreign policy after World War II. How did the Marshall Plan fit in all of this? What other international institutions did the U.S. Government set up that had a big role in doing the bankers bidding? Finally, reflect on the long term effects these arrangements had on the role of banks in American and global politics.
4-We covered corruption and the influence of big Oil on Nigeria in Chapter Five. What are the main themes from this chapter? Identify them and explain how and why they are important to understanding International Relations.