Karen_A._Mingst,_Ivan_M._Arregu_n-Toft]_Essentia

In Sum: Making Sense of International Relations 19

Discussion Questions

1. A respected family member picks up this book and sees the word theory in the
   first chapter. She is skeptical about the value of theory. Explain to her the util-
   ity of developing a theoretical perspective.


2. Philosophy is your passion, but you find international relations moderately
   in ter est ing. How can you integrate your passion with this pragmatic interest?
   What questions can you explore?


3. You are a history major skilled in researching the historical archives. Suggest
   two research proj ects that you might undertake to further your understand-
   ing of international relations.


4. How can the study of international relations be made more scientific? What
   are the prob lems with doing so?

Key Te r m s

anarchy (p. 9)

behavioralism (p. 12)

international relations (p. 4)

normative (p. 10)