Paper 3 Global Politics · Comparative theory
Comparative theory - paragraph completion
2 paragraphs argue one side. You write the rebuttal and the interim judgement.
How this works. Each pre-written opening argues one side. Your job is the rebuttal: answer it with the named evidence, then end on an interim judgement. Your writing saves on this device.
Paragraph 1 · theme: The reach of realism
Evaluate the view that realism best explains state behaviour in global politics.
The opening (given) - rebut this
Realism is often said to be the weakest lens for the modern world: it cannot explain durable cooperation - the EU, the WTO, the democratic peace - and treats interests as fixed when constructivists show they are socially constructed. On this view liberalism and constructivism explain far more.
Your task - write the rebuttal
Answer back using: anarchy and the security dilemma explaining recurring war; neo-realist balancing in the Cold War and China's rise; Mearsheimer's realist reading of Ukraine. Finish with an interim judgement that backs your line of argument.
Paragraph 2 · theme: The liberal challenge
Evaluate the view that realism best explains state behaviour in global politics.
The opening (given) - rebut this
Liberalism is often held up as the better explanation: institutions, trade and democracy tame anarchy and make war costly, so cooperation, not conflict, is the norm.
Your task - write the rebuttal
Answer back using: realism's account of why cooperation breaks down under pressure; the security dilemma and self-help in anarchy; balancing behaviour against the strongest state. Finish with an interim judgement that backs your line of argument.