TIR Seminar 1

A thought-provoking illustration depicting various theoretical perspectives in International Relations, integrating symbols of pluralism, paradigms, and social science debates, with a backdrop of a world map.

Exploring Theory in International Relations

Test your knowledge of theoretical perspectives in International Relations with this engaging quiz! Focused on key thinkers like Steve Smith and Thomas Kuhn, this quiz will challenge your understanding of theory choice and the Great Debates in IR.

4 Challenging Questions
Multiple Choice and Checkbox Formats
Designed for Students and Scholars alike

4 Questions1 MinutesCreated by DebatingTheory42

Which view of theory and theoretical pluralism is argued for by Steve Smith?

Theories explain the same world from different perspectives.

Theories constitute different but sometimes overlapping social worlds.

Theoretical pluralism can be compared to a jigsaw.

Theoretical pluralism can be compared to a mobile over a child’s bed.

2. According to Steve Smith: Which of the following statements about theory choice is correct?

A. Theory choice should depend on what you want to explain.

B. Theory choice is entirely a matter of subjective preference.

C. Theory choice is influenced by position in the social world.

D. Theory choice should be determined by epistemology and methodology.

3. Which statement about Thomas Kuhn’s view of theory choice is correct?

A. Choosing between paradigms must rely on empirical testing.

B. Choosing between paradigms is subjective and in the last instance arbitrary.

C. Choosing between paradigms must be based on a multi-criteria comparison of theories.

D. Choosing between paradigms is not possible unless one develops research programs.

4. According to Kurki and Wight: Which of the following statements about the Great Debates in IR is NOT correct?

A. Contenders in the first debate had no clear account of science.

B. In the second debate behaviorists embraced positivism as the best way of doing social science.

C. In the third debate the contending theories did not have competing philosophies of science.

D. It is a commonality of post-positivists in the fourth debate that they question the validity of scientific knowledge altogether.

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TIR Seminar 1

Exploring Theory in International Relations

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