Task – ‘Open-source’ task. Theory – 10 point task – a ‘Open-source’ task. Find/identify main postulates of given great thinker/scholar [from Martin Griffiths

Task – 1. ‘Open-source’ task. THEORY – 10 point
TASK – 1. A) ‘Open-source’ task. Find/identify main postulates of given great thinker/scholar [from Martin Griffiths. FIFTY KEY THINKERS IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS – 1st and 2nd editions] and provide relevant illustration of events / case in IR.


Raymond Aron
Raymond Aron was a French political philosopher and sociologist known for his contributions to the study of international relations (IR). The main postulates of Aron are:

1. 
   Realism: Aron was a proponent of Realism in IR and believed that the main driver of international relations is the pursuit of power. He saw states as rational actors motivated by self-interest and security considerations.
   
2. 
   The role of ideas: Aron also emphasized the role of ideas and ideologies in shaping international relations. He argued that ideas can shape the perception of interests, influencing the behavior of states and leading to conflicts.
   
3. 
   The importance of institutions: Aron believed that institutions play an important role in moderating international relations and promoting stability. He saw international organizations like the United Nations as crucial in preventing conflicts and promoting cooperation among states.
   

Illustration of events/case in IR:

1. 
   The Cold War: The Cold War between the US and the Soviet Union was an example of the realist perspective put forward by Aron. Both superpowers were driven by the pursuit of power and security, leading to a bipolar system of international relations characterized by tension and competition.
   
2. 
   The Vietnam War: The Vietnam War was an illustration of the role of ideas and ideology in shaping international relations. The conflict was driven by the US's belief in the spread of communism, leading to its involvement in the war.
   
3. 
   The UN and peacekeeping missions: The United Nations and its peacekeeping missions are a prime example of the importance of institutions in promoting stability and cooperation in international relations. The UN has been instrumental in resolving conflicts and promoting peace around the world, serving as a key illustration of Aron's ideas on the role of institutions in international relations.