Holly Cowper
1875 Words
Marxism as an approach to International Relations is often analysed and discussed in regards to the significance of its contribution as a theory in International Relations. Criticism is present surrounding the weaknesses of the theory as well as its potential irrelevance. In order to critically evaluate the Marxist approach to International Relations, I will conduct a thorough analysis of both the significant strengths and weaknesses of the theory as well as its continuing relevance in modern times. This examination of the central aspects of Marxism in regards to International Relations will effectively allow me to develop an in-depth conclusion of the ways in which Marxist theory contributes to our understanding …show more content…
Whilst the basic theory of class structure still exists within the International System, it is not observed on an individual level and class diversity exists between states. Nations who align with the Proletariat position within the system are predominantly developing countries whilst the capitalist or Bourgeois associated states encompasses the developed nations. The consumerist nature of the economically successful ‘bourgeois’ states, significantly influences the rapid development of a number of Multinational Corporations (MNC’S). These large corporations often become increasingly globalised as a result of the ability to maximise revenue through the use of cheap labour. By outsourcing jobs to under developed nations, MNC’s are able to produce capital at a much lower cost as employment laws are not generally as rigorously regulated in these areas. I believe this application of Marxist Theory to international relations can be regarded as a strength as it efficiently highlights the increasing gap between economically flourishing states and those that are destitute and impoverished in regards to Marxist …show more content…
Analysing and comparing the positive and negative aspects of the theory as well considering its continuing relevance within modern society allows me to develop a greater understanding of how Marxism approaches International Relations. From my analysis throughout previous paragraphs it is clear that this approach has both significant strengths and weaknesses.
Marx theory of class can be effectively and accurately applied to International Relations as a means of examining the ways in which class struggle is present within states and how this conflict affects relations between key actors within the International System. Although this aspect of analysis is strong, components of the Marxist approach of International Relations remain flawed, Marx pertains a predominantly economic focus towards International Relations often attracting criticism concerning how this approach leaves little regard for other aspects of analysis. This weakness is of genuine concern, as it is important to maintain a holistic view of the ways in which additional factors may affect international relations. However, I do not believe that this factor implicates the theory to an extremely significant extent, this is because of the considerable means of research reinforcing the significance economic factors
1875 Words
Marxism as an approach to International Relations is often analysed and discussed in regards to the significance of its contribution as a theory in International Relations. Criticism is present surrounding the weaknesses of the theory as well as its potential irrelevance. In order to critically evaluate the Marxist approach to International Relations, I will conduct a thorough analysis of both the significant strengths and weaknesses of the theory as well as its continuing relevance in modern times. This examination of the central aspects of Marxism in regards to International Relations will effectively allow me to develop an in-depth conclusion of the ways in which Marxist theory contributes to our understanding …show more content…
Whilst the basic theory of class structure still exists within the International System, it is not observed on an individual level and class diversity exists between states. Nations who align with the Proletariat position within the system are predominantly developing countries whilst the capitalist or Bourgeois associated states encompasses the developed nations. The consumerist nature of the economically successful ‘bourgeois’ states, significantly influences the rapid development of a number of Multinational Corporations (MNC’S). These large corporations often become increasingly globalised as a result of the ability to maximise revenue through the use of cheap labour. By outsourcing jobs to under developed nations, MNC’s are able to produce capital at a much lower cost as employment laws are not generally as rigorously regulated in these areas. I believe this application of Marxist Theory to international relations can be regarded as a strength as it efficiently highlights the increasing gap between economically flourishing states and those that are destitute and impoverished in regards to Marxist …show more content…
Analysing and comparing the positive and negative aspects of the theory as well considering its continuing relevance within modern society allows me to develop a greater understanding of how Marxism approaches International Relations. From my analysis throughout previous paragraphs it is clear that this approach has both significant strengths and weaknesses.
Marx theory of class can be effectively and accurately applied to International Relations as a means of examining the ways in which class struggle is present within states and how this conflict affects relations between key actors within the International System. Although this aspect of analysis is strong, components of the Marxist approach of International Relations remain flawed, Marx pertains a predominantly economic focus towards International Relations often attracting criticism concerning how this approach leaves little regard for other aspects of analysis. This weakness is of genuine concern, as it is important to maintain a holistic view of the ways in which additional factors may affect international relations. However, I do not believe that this factor implicates the theory to an extremely significant extent, this is because of the considerable means of research reinforcing the significance economic factors