Of course there is an inherent value to analyze world politics from alternative perspectives. The question should rather be how different perspectives make up world politics. In IR theory, realism, liberalism, and constructivism are perspectives that explain how nations act in the international stage. If we view a country’s actions from only one lens, we turn a blind eye to what its real intentions are. If the U.S. saw China’s rise in a purely realist way, we might view China solely as a threat and pursue a relationship more as rivals. If we saw it in a purely liberal way, the U.S. might relax its stance and pursue a friendly relationship. In the first scenario, hostile situations will rise and war could happen. In the second scenario, the U.S. might become too complacent and quickly be overtaken by China. Because both situations are unwelcome, a hybrid of perspectives that strikes a balance is ideal.
The value of foundational or what-it-could’ve-been stories are priceless. Throughout history the strong and the majority have reined over the masses. For example, women throughout history have been silenced and oppressed. Even today in the U.S., women are still being marginalized. I recently read an article that states that for the first time in recent history, there may be fewer women in Congress in 2011 than 2010. Now this wouldn’t be such a big deal if Congress was around 50% female, except women make up about 17% of Congress. Even if Hillary Clinton had a real shot at the presidency, women still have a ways to go to be on equal grounds with men. Suppose women made up half of Congress when the healthcare bill was being pushed. I seriously doubt the bill would have taken so long and withered down the way it was. I remember reading about studies and surveys that show women are more proactive about health issues than men. I’m sure this is debatable, but I think healthcare reform is very proactive. When such a large segment of the population is not being heard, government cannot effectively provide its citizens with what they need. We will never know what would have happened had women had equal footing with men, but we can work to make sure we know what it means with examples in the future.
Mario, I agree with your statement that "If we view a country’s actions from only one lens, we turn a blind eye to what its real intentions are." This is why different perspectives are very valuable in world politics. Nations and people and very complex and cannot be grouped together into one theory or identity.
ReplyDeleteYou make an interesting point with your example on women in Congress. I agree that "When such a large segment of the population is not being heard, government cannot effectively provide its citizens with what they need." Women are a part of this nation's population and not allowing their voices to be heard in government can be detrimental to this demographic's needs. This goes for any segment of the population. Political leaders must keep in mind the perspectives of all part of the world's population to implement effective policy.