What is the anarchical society theory?

The English School argument that although there is no authority above states, states nonetheless form a society: they share rules, institutions and expectations that produce substantial order without any world government.

Which thinker is most associated with the idea of the anarchical society?

Hedley Bull, who argued that international relations occupy a middle ground between the realist state of war and the liberal vision of world community.

What does the theory accept from realism?

That the system is anarchic — there is no overarching authority, states remain sovereign, and none can be compelled by a superior power.

What does the theory accept from liberalism?

That cooperation is real and durable, because states share interests in survival, in the keeping of agreements and in limiting violence, and build institutions to serve them.

What is a society of states?

A group of states that recognise one another as legitimate, accept common rules governing their dealings, and share institutions for operating those rules — so that they form a society rather than merely a system of contacts.

Edexcel A-Level Politics 9PL0

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Global Comparative Theories

The anarchical society and the society of states

2 things to know
Component 3

Overview

Recall questions on Bull's account of international society, its institutions, the role of norms and reciprocity, and the distinction between order and justice.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Your recallNot started

Key term

What is the difference between order and justice in Bull's account?

Key term

What are the institutions of international society in this account?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1
What is the anarchical society theory?
Model answer
The English School argument that although there is no authority above states, states nonetheless form a society: they share rules, institutions and expectations that produce substantial order without any world government.
2
Which thinker is most associated with the idea of the anarchical society?
Model answer
Hedley Bull, who argued that international relations occupy a middle ground between the realist state of war and the liberal vision of world community.
3
What does the theory accept from realism?
Model answer
That the system is anarchic — there is no overarching authority, states remain sovereign, and none can be compelled by a superior power.
4
What does the theory accept from liberalism?
Model answer
That cooperation is real and durable, because states share interests in survival, in the keeping of agreements and in limiting violence, and build institutions to serve them.
5
What is a society of states?
Model answer
A group of states that recognise one another as legitimate, accept common rules governing their dealings, and share institutions for operating those rules — so that they form a society rather than merely a system of contacts.
6
What are the institutions of international society in this account?
Model answer
Diplomacy, international law, the balance of power, the management role of the great powers, and war itself as a regulated instrument rather than an unlimited one.

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ACitizens elect representatives to govern on their behalf.

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