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

GERAOID O TUATHAIL
Gerard Toal's theory of place and space in political geography and IR focuses on the idea of critical geopolitics. He argues that traditional approaches to geopolitics and IR, which are often centered on the state and its borders, are insufficient to understand the complex and changing relationships between power, space, and place.
3 Postulates of Gerard Toal on the Theory of Place and Space:

1. 
   Traditional approaches to geopolitics and IR are insufficient: Toal argues that traditional approaches to geopolitics and IR, which are centered on the state and its borders, are insufficient to understand the complex relationships between power, space, and place. He believes that a critical examination of the production of space and place is necessary to understand the power dynamics underlying international relations.
   
2. 
   Geopolitical discourse is inherently political: Toal argues that geopolitical discourse is inherently political and is used to shape and contest the meaning of space and place. He believes that understanding the ways in which political power is used to create and maintain space is crucial to understanding international relations.
   
3. 
   The production of space and place reveals power dynamics: Toal argues that an examination of the production of space and place can reveal the power dynamics underlying international relations. He believes that by understanding the ways in which space is produced and the power dynamics inherent in this process, it is possible to gain a deeper understanding of the international political landscape.
   

Illustrations of Toal's theory in international relations include:

1. 
   The use of geographic metaphors and language in political discourse: Toal highlights the importance of language in shaping and reflecting power dynamics in international relations. For example, the use of terms like "frontiers" or "heartlands" in political discourse can reflect and reinforce dominant power structures.
   
2. 
   The role of media representations in shaping public perceptions and understanding of geography: Toal argues that media representations play a crucial role in shaping public understanding and perceptions of geography and, by extension, international relations. For example, media representations of conflict in certain regions can reinforce dominant power structures and contribute to a distorted understanding of the situation.
   
3. 
   The ways in which the global economic system creates unequal access to resources and opportunities: Toal argues that the global economic system creates unequal access to resources and opportunities, which contributes to power imbalances and affects international relations. For example, the concentration of wealth and power in certain countries and regions can shape the global political landscape and impact the relationships between states.