Predicted Paper 3 Global · Q2 · 12-mark comparative theory

Realism, liberalism and sovereignty

"Examine the differences between realist and liberal views of state sovereignty. (12 marks)"

1. What a 12-mark Q2 wants

This is the 12-mark Section A comparative-theory question, marked AO1 and AO2 only - no AO3. It asks you to explain how the two main theories of global politics, realism and liberalism, differ in their view of state sovereignty.

Spec hook. Theories of global politics; sovereignty and the state. Realism and liberalism are the core theoretical lenses on the specification.

Aim for three or four developed differences. For each, state the difference, give accurate knowledge of both theories (AO1), then explain what the difference means (AO2).

2. The realist view of sovereignty

For realists, the sovereign state is the central and irreducible actor in world politics.

The international system is anarchic - there is no authority above the state - so states must rely on themselves.
Sovereignty is therefore treated as near-absolute: the state is the supreme authority within its borders.
International organisations and law matter only as far as powerful states allow; they do not override sovereignty.
Realists are sceptical of any erosion of sovereignty and stress the national interest and survival.

3. The liberal view of sovereignty

For liberals, sovereignty is real but permeable and increasingly shared.

States operate in a web of complex interdependence, so they are not the only significant actors.
States willingly pool sovereignty through international institutions because cooperation serves their interests.
International law and norms - including human rights and Responsibility to Protect - can legitimately limit a state's sovereignty.
Liberals see the erosion of absolute sovereignty as possible and often beneficial.

4. The key differences

Set the two theories against each other.

Difference	Realism	Liberalism
How absolute is sovereignty	Near-absolute and to be defended	Real but permeable and shareable
The international system	Anarchic - self-help	Interdependent - cooperation is possible
International institutions	Matter only as powerful states allow	Genuinely pool and channel sovereignty
Limiting sovereignty	Resisted; the national interest comes first	Accepted; norms and rights can override it

AO2 line. The deepest difference flows from the view of the international system: realists see anarchy and so guard sovereignty, while liberals see interdependence and so accept that sovereignty is pooled and limited. That single contrast can anchor the whole answer.

5. Writing the answer

Choose three or four differences. For each, write one developed paragraph: state the difference, give AO1 knowledge of what each theory holds, then explain in AO2 why the two theories diverge.

Banned move. Do not argue which theory is correct - that is AO3 and earns nothing here. Keep every paragraph comparative and explanatory.