International Relations Theories: Assumptions and Problems
Idealism/Liberal Internationalism and Francis Fukuyama: Analyzing Assumptions, Contradictions, and Problems
Introduction
Liberal internationalism, rooted in idealism, supports a global order based on democratic governance, multilateral cooperation, and the rule of law. It draws on the belief that democracies, driven by shared values and institutions, are more peaceful and cooperative in international affairs. Francis Fukuyama’s famous thesis in The End of History and the Last Man (1992) builds on
Spain’s Democratic Transition: 1975-1978
Spain’s Democratic Transition (1975-1978)
The transition from dictatorship to democracy in Spain, known as *The Transition*, was a difficult period spanning from 1975 to 1978. This passage from organic democracy to real democracy is characterized by the constitution of 1978. The Spanish transition was made possible by the following:
- Historical memory: The mistakes of the Second Republic and the sufferings of the dictatorship.
- International context: A favorable climate for the introduction of democracy
Democracy Under Siege: Challenges and Paths to Renewal
Democracy has been idealized as the political system that guarantees equitable participation, social justice, and individual freedom. However, a critical and historical analysis reveals that its real practice often falls short of this ideal. This essay will explore how factors such as cancel culture, the Eurocentric critique of democracy, civil disobedience, the concentration of media power, and global phenomena like globalization and cosmopolitan democracy impact both the perception and functioning
Read MoreUnderstanding the EU’s Common Foreign & Security Policy
The EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP)
Key Features of the CFSP:
- Limited role for the European Commission and no role for European Courts.
- Qualified Majority Voting (QMV) is permitted in the Council for “lower” decisions; unanimity is required for others.
- The European Parliament (EP) has a consultative role.
The European Council
The European Council, along with the High Representative (HR) and the Foreign Affairs Council, is responsible for the overall direction of the CFSP. It also frequently
Read MoreEU Commission: Powers, Functions, and Duties
Appointment and Removal
Under the rules amended by the Lisbon Treaty, the Commission President is proposed by qualified majority voting by the European Council. The European Parliament must approve the proposal by a majority vote. Such proposals and appointments usually go through unopposed. The High Representative, who will automatically be one of the Vice-Presidents of the Commission, is appointed by QMV of the European Council. The Commission President Elect further nominates the other Commissioners,
Read MoreGerman Unification: From Nationalism to Empire
German Unification (1815-1871)
German unification saw Germany awaken their national consciousness, first in the cultural sphere, then economically, and finally, politically.
Upstream (1815-1864): The Main Unifying Factor
German nationalism had two main streams:
- A minority liberal-democratic romanticism of French origin, identifying the nation with a voluntary association of individuals. This concept was tested in the Frankfurt Parliament and advocated for a “Greater Germany,” including Austria and the