My Fifth Day of Class (Constructivism)

7/31 (Thu)

Today is the final day for learning IR theories. Today we covered Constructivism.
Its main arguments are:
●Reality is not given but socially constructed
●Ideas/Identity mattes the most
●Our language is important - reflect our ideas
●Our perspective not only shapes how and what we see, but the meaning we take
from it
●The Sneetches, by Dr. Seuss
●Emphasize culture, norms, ideas, identity, socialization, ideology,
language,cognition over utility
●Shared ideas, norms, ets can promote cooperatioin

In summary, constructivism claims that reality is constructed by our ideas or perceptions. For example, let's think about international system which realism and liberalism call it 'anarchy.' Constructivism believes that 'anarchical' international system was created by us. It did not preexist. Because we think other countries are not reliable and fearful, we perceive the world as anarchy.
Constructivism analyzes international issues focusing on how ideas affects on them.