Cosmopolitikos Note:

Liberalism (Theory of International Relations)

Liberalism came out of the will, in the 17th century and the rise of Enlightenment, to free men from all forms of tyranny and oppression. At the domestic level, liberal ideas forged concepts such as the rule of law, the division of power, civil rights, and the consolidation of private property. Liberal inspired scholars where the first to elaborate a coherent theory to explain international phenomenon and founded the International Relations discipline. Often called Idealism or Utopianism by realist authors in the interwar period (1919-1939), Liberalism is nevertheless one of the most influential approach of International Relations and influences most of the practitioners from the West in their view of World politics. Core Assumptions Men are progressing through Reason and liberating themselves from all forms of oppression and domination. Such things as Universal Values, Ethics or Morality exist. Non-State actors, such as individuals and commercial firms, play a role in international relations as much as governments. The spread of democratic institutions secures peace (Republican Liberalism). Free-trade and economic integration increase the cost of war (Commercial Liberalism). Transnational relations increase the bonds among different nations (Sociological Liberalism). The rational calculation of interest (individual or national) and the pursuit of wealth through maximization lead toward the common good or General Interest (invisible hand). The effect of self-help, anarchy and the security dilemma can be diminished or overcome by the rule of law, cooperation and collective action.

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