Theory Explorer

Understand International Relations through three major theoretical lenses

Realism

States compete for power in an anarchic system. Security dilemmas drive military buildups and alliances.

Key Question: How does the balance of power shape state behavior?

Classroom Prompt: Analyze military spending trends in the South China Sea. What does a realist perspective reveal about security competition?

Liberalism

International institutions and economic interdependence foster cooperation and reduce conflict.

Key Question: How do trade and treaties promote peace?

Classroom Prompt: Examine ASEAN-EU trade patterns. How does economic interdependence influence diplomatic relations?

Constructivism

Ideas, norms, and identities shape state interests and behavior. Language and discourse matter.

Key Question: How do narratives construct reality?

Classroom Prompt: Track the rise of "Indo-Pacific" framing. How do shifting narratives reflect and shape regional identity?

Four-Step Learning Journey

1

Data Gathering

Collect relevant datasets

2

Visualization

See patterns emerge

3

Simulation

Test what-if scenarios

4

Prediction

Forecast future trends

Getting Started (15-30 min activities)

Step 1: Choose a case study above or go to Data Lab to load sample datasets
Step 2: Visit Visualization to see theory overlays on maps, charts, and networks
Step 3: Run Simulations to test "what-if" scenarios and see theoretical implications
Step 4: Explore Predictive Analysis to forecast trends with confidence bands