AWARDED: Some excellent examples with pleasing knowledge and analysis. Stronger responses explained security dilemma and how states attempt to increase security in anarchical system, developing new weapons capabilities leading to instability. Stronger responses provided depth of analysis on military spending. Complex interdependence well understood; students clearly explained how it makes war less likely. MISSED: Some responses missed opportunity to make synoptic points, failing to access Level 4. ADVICE: \"The most common synoptic links were between realists and some conservatives on human nature.\" KEY PRINCIPLE (from ER 2025, applicable to all questions): Address the question directly. For this question, define the realist and liberal positions clearly before comparing them. Structure around specific concepts where they diverge (e.g. human nature, state sovereignty, cooperation, conflict). ANALYSE TECHNIQUE: This is a 12-mark question requiring you to break the topic into its component parts and explain how they relate. Use theoretical frameworks (realist vs liberal, etc.) to structure your analysis. Specific examples strengthen your argument. EXAMINER RECOMMENDATIONS (from ER 2025, applicable to all questions): 1. ANSWER THE QUESTION ASKED: Focus on the specific analytical comparison demanded. Break down the topic systematically rather than giving a general overview. If the question asks how X and Y differ, structure around the points of difference. 2. CONSIDER BOTH PERSPECTIVES: Even in a 12-mark question, demonstrating that you understand the different theoretical positions (e.g. realist vs liberal) and can compare them strengthens your analysis. 3. USE EVIDENCE EFFECTIVELY: Support your analytical points with specific examples, named theorists or concrete cases. Abstract analysis without evidence stays in the lower mark bands. 4. VALUE TIMED PRACTICE: The more practice you have of responding in exam conditions, the better you will perform. For the final question on each paper, time pressure is real -- practise to a strict timer.