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Rolling Changes In National Role Conceptions: Role Theory And International Relations

George Martin

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Published in Role Theory And Russian Foreign Policy: Rolling Changes In National Role Conceptions (Role Theory And International Relations)

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Role theory is a sociological theory that examines how individuals and groups behave in social situations. It argues that people's behavior is shaped by their expectations and by the expectations of others. In the context of international relations, role theory can be used to understand how states behave in the world. It can help us to understand why states make the choices they do, and how their behavior is shaped by their own perceptions of their role in the world and by the perceptions of other states.

Role Theory and Russian Foreign Policy: Rolling Changes in National Role Conceptions (Role Theory and International Relations)

by Karen Kingsbury

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Role Theory And National Identity

One of the key concepts in role theory is the concept of role identity. Role identity is the sense of self that a person develops as a result of playing a particular role. In the context of international relations, states' role identities are shaped by their history, culture, and geography. A state's role identity will influence its foreign policy and its behavior in the world.

For example, a state that sees itself as a "great power" will be more likely to pursue an assertive foreign policy. A state that sees itself as a "peacemaker" will be more likely to pursue a cooperative foreign policy. A state's role identity can also change over time. For example, the United States has moved from seeing itself as a "city on a hill" to seeing itself as a "global superpower." This change in role identity has been reflected in its foreign policy.

The Impact Of Role Theory On Foreign Policy

Role theory can help us to understand how states make foreign policy decisions. States' foreign policy choices are often based on their perception of their role in the world. For example, a state that sees itself as a "protector" of its region may be more likely to intervene in conflicts in its neighborhood. A state that sees itself as a "balancer" may be more likely to form alliances with other states to counter the power of a rising power.

Role theory can also help us to understand how states interact with each other. States' behavior towards each other is often shaped by their perceptions of their respective roles. For example, a state that sees itself as a "leader" may be more likely to take the initiative in forming alliances and in resolving conflicts. A state that sees itself as a "follower" may be more likely to wait for other states to take the lead.

Role theory is a valuable tool for understanding how states behave in the world. It can help us to understand why states make the choices they do, and how their behavior is shaped by their own perceptions of their role in the world and by the perceptions of other states. Role theory can also help us to understand how states interact with each other and how the international system evolves.

As the world continues to change, we can expect to see rolling changes in national role conceptions. These changes will have a significant impact on international relations. By understanding role theory, we can better prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Role Theory and Russian Foreign Policy: Rolling Changes in National Role Conceptions (Role Theory and International Relations)

by Karen Kingsbury

4.8 out of 5