Short Papers 1
The Coronavirus pandemic provides a useful testing ground for international relations theory. There are a variety of currents at play: In some regards there is greater cooperation among countries (Cuban doctors being deployed around the globe). You have had acts of international isolationism (closure of borders both between and within countries). Some would even say capitalism has been suspended. The domestic and global economy is now firmly in the hands of governments, reluctantly or strategically, tasked with carrying out crisis mitigation (oil shocks and concerted use of monetary and fiscal policy by central banks).
What do you make of all of this?
In this assignment you are required to examine the contours of the global pandemic within the dominant IR paradigms. Specifically, using your knowledge of neorealist, liberal, marxist, and constructivist theory, formulate a nuanced analysis of the current situation. In other words, evaluate the contemporary global situation under COVID-19 from the above theoretical frameworks. Please cite the literature extensively in combination with anecdotal examples from current events.
You should be asking yourself: How would a neorealist (liberal, marxist, and constructivist) analyze our present predicament? Be sure to use examples to support your point. Finally, you will suggest the most applicable theory to both describe and explain the global crisis.
