CSS International Relations 2019 paper(b)
No. 2. What were the foundational principles of Nazism using which Hitler raised to power in Germany? (20)
No. 3. The Cold War is considered one of the longest peace in great powers’ history. What deterministic factors ensured relative peace in great powers’ relations during the Cold War? (20)
No. 4. World orders are established by great powers in order to serve their interests. What are the foundations of existing world order(s) and how do they serve the interests of great powers? (20)
No. 5. SAARC is facing an existential crisis. How do functionalists explain the failure of SAARC as a regional organization? (20)
No. 6. How do rational theories of foreign policy explain state decision-making? Discuss the tenets of the theory in light of the decision made by Pakistan in response to the Saudi request to send troops during the Yemen crisis in 2015. (20)
No. 7. What benefits India might have gained by joining the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)? Highlight possible impacts it may have on strategic stability in South Asia. (20)
No. 8. What are the major policy prescriptions of structural adjustment and stabilization of the World Bank and IMF vis-à-vis Pakistan? (20)
Summary of Questions:
No. 2. What were the foundational principles of Nazism using which Hitler rose to power in Germany?
Nazism, under Adolf Hitler, was based on principles of extreme nationalism, racial purity, and authoritarianism. The core tenets included the belief in the superiority of the Aryan race, anti-Semitism, and the need for a strong, centralized state. Hitler capitalized on economic hardship, promoting militarism, anti-communism, and expansionism to rally support. These ideologies were used to justify the oppression of minorities, territorial expansion, and the establishment of a totalitarian regime in Germany.
No. 3. The Cold War is considered one of the longest periods of peace in great powers’ history. What deterministic factors ensured relative peace in great powers’ relations during the Cold War?
During the Cold War, several factors ensured relative peace between the great powers, despite ideological tensions. The nuclear deterrent and the concept of mutually assured destruction (MAD) prevented direct military conflict. Diplomatic mechanisms like the United Nations and summits between leaders provided avenues for communication and de-escalation. Additionally, the balance of power, economic interdependence, and the focus on avoiding direct confrontation allowed for a prolonged period of relative peace between the United States and the Soviet Union.
No. 4. World orders are established by great powers in order to serve their interests. What are the foundations of existing world order(s) and how do they serve the interests of great powers?
Existing world orders, such as the post-World War II liberal order, are built on principles of international cooperation, free trade, and the promotion of democratic governance. Great powers, particularly the U.S., established these systems to secure political, economic, and military dominance. These orders serve their interests by facilitating access to global markets, ensuring strategic alliances, and promoting stability in areas that benefit their geopolitical goals. The creation of institutions like the UN, IMF, and WTO allows great powers to exert influence over international rules and norms.
No. 5. SAARC is facing an existential crisis. How do functionalists explain the failure of SAARC as a regional organization?
Functionalists argue that regional organizations like SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) fail when their primary focus is on political or security issues instead of practical, functional cooperation. SAARC has struggled with political rivalry and unresolved conflicts between its member states, particularly India and Pakistan. Functionalism suggests that unless regional organizations focus on shared, non-political goals such as economic cooperation, trade, or environmental issues, they are unlikely to achieve lasting success or peace.
No. 6. How do rational theories of foreign policy explain state decision-making? Discuss the tenets of the theory in light of the decision made by Pakistan in response to the Saudi request to send troops during the Yemen crisis in 2015.
Rational theories of foreign policy argue that state decisions are made based on a logical assessment of costs and benefits, with the aim of maximizing national interests. In the case of Pakistan’s decision regarding Saudi Arabia’s request to send troops during the Yemen crisis, rational decision-making would have considered factors like military alliances, economic benefits, regional stability, and domestic political repercussions. Pakistan’s decision to refrain from sending troops was likely influenced by these strategic calculations, prioritizing its relationship with Iran and the potential costs of involvement in a sectarian conflict.
No. 7. What benefits might India have gained by joining the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)? Highlight possible impacts it may have on strategic stability in South Asia.
By joining the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), India gained access to advanced missile technology and related expertise, which enhanced its defense capabilities. Membership signaled India’s commitment to non-proliferation and strengthened its position in global diplomacy. In South Asia, India’s entry into the MTCR could contribute to strategic stability by encouraging transparency and arms control, potentially reducing the risk of an arms race with Pakistan and China. However, it could also lead to further security concerns in the region, particularly in the context of nuclear deterrence and regional rivalries.
No. 8. What are the major policy prescriptions of structural adjustment and stabilization of the World Bank and IMF vis-à-vis Pakistan?
The major policy prescriptions of the World Bank and IMF for Pakistan’s structural adjustment and stabilization programs include fiscal austerity, reducing government spending, tax reforms, and privatization of state-owned enterprises. These measures aim to stabilize Pakistan’s economy, reduce its fiscal deficit, and encourage economic growth through market-oriented reforms. However, critics argue that these policies often lead to social inequalities, unemployment, and reduced public welfare, exacerbating poverty and inequality in the country.