Theories of International Relations
SECTION B Answer Question 2.
2 Analyse the differences that exist between realists and liberals in the ways they view human nature and power.
In your answer, you must discuss any relevant core political ideas (12 Marks) Edexcel 2022
Conservatism: core ideas and principles and how they relate to human nature, the state, society, and the economy
e.g Hobbes and the consequences of this for the state system and the likelihood of cooperation, his negative view of human nature and the dangers to civil society, and the likelihood of conflict
Socialism: core ideas and how they relate to human nature, the state, society and the economy.
e.g Greater optimism on human nature linked to the natural relationship among humans being cooperation and work for the common good – Marx - which makes the idea of a global society order and cooperation likely.
liberalism: core ideas and how they relate to human nature, the state, society and the economy.
e.g Emphasis on the benefits of mutual cooperation and order and avoidance of war from both an economic and practical position – Locke.
Examiner's Comment: The guidelines for this question on the mark scheme make clear that candidates who do not make any synoptic points cannot achieve Level 4 and are consequently capped at a mark of 9 which is the top of Level 3. The core ideas and principles of Conservatism and how they relate to human nature were the most used gateway to synoptic content