This lesson explains how the end of the Cold War changed the focus of international political economy (IPE). For much of its history, IPE concentrated on powerful Western economies; after 1989, greater attention turned to the political and economic challenges of developing countries.
From the late nineteenth century through the Cold War, IPE research and discussion focused primarily on the leading international financial powers: liberal democracies in Western Europe and the United States. Their economic systems and preferences shaped much of the international agenda.
All flashcards
What did the Bretton Woods conference illustrate about influence in international affairs?
Countries with different systems could participate while still having limited influence over decisions shaped by leading Western powers.
What pathway did Lipset propose between development and democracy?
Rising wealth and education may expand the middle class, which can press for democratic institutions and broader representation.
What did modernization theory suggest about economic growth?
Growth can transform social structures in ways that encourage political representation and eventually support democratic institutions.
What distinction did Przeworski and Limongi make about development and democracy?
Development may not determine democratic transitions, but higher development is associated with democratic survival after transition.
What concern motivates attention to sustainable development?
Market-based development can have unwanted consequences, so policy discussions increasingly consider sustainability as well as growth.
Quiz questions
Before the end of the Cold War, which countries were the main focus of IPE?Answer: The United States and liberal democracies in Western Europe.
Which statement best expresses the central claim of modernization theory?Answer: Economic growth can reshape society in ways that encourage representation and democracy.
What did James A. Robinson report about economic development and democratization?Answer: They are highly correlated, but the process linking growth to democracy remains unclear.
According to Przeworski and Limongi, what role may development play in relation to democracy?Answer: It may support democratic survival without determining when transitions occur.
What is the central counterargument made by Acemoglu and colleagues?Answer: Critical historical moments may shape both economic and political outcomes.
Based on Introduction to Political Science by Mark Carl Rom, Masaki Hidaka, Rachel Bzostek Walker (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.