Political Science · International Relations
UGC NET July 2016 Political Science
Which of the following is not a basic norm of the balance of power system that is clear to each of the state actors engaged in the process of balancing?
AAny actor or coalition that tries to assume dominance must be constrained
BStates want to increase their capabilities by acquiring territory, increasing their population or developing economically
CNegotiating is better than fighting
DOther states are viewed as potential enemies ✓ Correct
Correct answer: (D) Other states are viewed as potential enemies — The statement that is not a basic norm of the balance of power is that other states are viewed as potential enemies.
Explanation
★The statement that is not a basic norm of the balance of power is that other states are viewed as potential enemies.
★Under the balance of power, other states are seen as potential rivals, not outright enemies.
★Security is held to be safest when power is so distributed that no single state can dominate.
★A genuine norm is that any actor or coalition seeking dominance must be constrained.
★Another is that states try to increase their capabilities through territory, population or economic growth.
★A third is that negotiation is generally better than fighting.
★Treating all others as enemies would undermine the flexible alliances on which balancing depends.
★The balance of power is a central idea of realist international relations theory.
Want more like this? Create a free account to practise a full test, track your progress, and get spaced-repetition review.
Shared by Mcqkart · via Mcqkart.in