Thesis: International Society can be characterised as a state of nature. Over time it has evolved to be more like John Locke’s state of nature as opposed to Thomas Hobbes’.
Structure:
Introduction
What is the state of nature according to Hobbes?
What is the state of nature according to Locke?
The Structure of the International System; evolution over time; what was it like before, what is it like now
- Discuss how initially international society would have been closer to Hobbes’ state of nature (use evidence)
- Then discuss how over time international society has evolved to be more like Locke’s state of nature (use evidence)
Whose view best explains international society? Why is it more like Locke’s state of Nature and not Hobbes’s?
- Use this section to explain how international society is like John Locke’s state of nature
- Use this section also to critique Hobbes’ view on the state of nature
- Provide a counterargument that there are still some remnants of Thomas Hobbes’ state of nature in contemporary international society (use evidence)
- Refute this counterargument by emphasising how international society is more like John Locke’s state of nature (use new examples to demonstrate this)
What are the implications of international society being a state of nature?
- Discuss concepts such as rational actors, respect for sovereignty/property
- Discuss the international society’s shift away from realist views of international relations to liberal institutionalism
What are the implications of having a Lockean view of the international system?
- What actions are taken by the international community that reflect John Locke’s attitude to the state of nature; how do states behave that look Lockean
- Use this section to critique the shortcomings of Locke’s state of nature; why are some of the bad things that can come about by adopting a Lockean outlook on the world
- Refute the criticisms by maintaining that whilst there are shortcomings this view is still better than Hobbes’ view which fails to address more than what a Lockean View fails to address; (support this with evidence and quotes)
Conclusion
Use the three sources listed below.
Directly quote from Hobbes and Locke where appropriate>
Cite every 100-200 words.
Use Chicago 17th footnotes and bibliography
Use at least 12 academic sources;
Use Chicago 17th footnotes and bibliography
Use at least 12 academic sources;