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- Title
- AXIS OF IDENTITIES: HOW SOCIALLY CONSTRUCTED PERCEPTIONS AFFECT THE FOREIGN POLICY OF NATIONS.
- Creator
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Torres, Roman, Sadri, Houman, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Contrary to the assumptions of realist theory, this thesis suggests that reality is subjected to social constructions. The national discourse of one country constitutes the context from which societies will generate perceptions and ideas about another society. It is from these socially constructed ideas that states' interests are formed. States interests are what constitute the foreign policy of a country. Given that the United States is the world's hegemon, understanding the process by which...
Show moreContrary to the assumptions of realist theory, this thesis suggests that reality is subjected to social constructions. The national discourse of one country constitutes the context from which societies will generate perceptions and ideas about another society. It is from these socially constructed ideas that states' interests are formed. States interests are what constitute the foreign policy of a country. Given that the United States is the world's hegemon, understanding the process by which countries' interests take shape and evolve will give the United States social awareness and strategic advantage to lead the world's current speedy integration with less volatile rivalries. In order to grasp the factors contributing to the relationship between specific states, some context is needed beforehand. By tracing and comparing historical events in the relations between the United States, Venezuela, and Iran, this thesis examines the constructivist claim that states behavior towards another is directly affected by the social interpretation of their interactions. It is social constructions, not power, what determines if states will view each other as "enemy" or "ally". National identity and worldview ultimately drive state behavior and how countries choose to utilize their capabilities.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFH0004419, ucf:45120
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004419
- Title
- FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS IN LATIN AMERICA: A COMPARATIVE STUDY ADDRESSING HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS IN VENEZUELA, COLOMBIA, AND ARGENTINA.
- Creator
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Rios, Maria, Sadri, Houman, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Over the last few decades the importance of human rights has increased considerably in international relations. With globalization and democratization, more states and individuals develop concerns about the fundamental rights every human is entitled to; regardless of sex, religion and ethnicity. Latin American countries began obtaining their independence over 200 years ago while progressing into becoming working democracies. Yet, they have been plagued by oscillating authoritarian regimes and...
Show moreOver the last few decades the importance of human rights has increased considerably in international relations. With globalization and democratization, more states and individuals develop concerns about the fundamental rights every human is entitled to; regardless of sex, religion and ethnicity. Latin American countries began obtaining their independence over 200 years ago while progressing into becoming working democracies. Yet, they have been plagued by oscillating authoritarian regimes and social conflicts that constrain and inhibit their hopeful development. The majority of the Latin American states have reached a point where further positive growth was expected; yet human violations have taken a backseat within the government of such countries. The case studies shed light on the three main causes of human right violations in Latin America. These are: the abuse of power by the government and the subsequent changes to the constitution to gain further control and authority; the government's inadequacy in dealing with subversive groups; and the deficiency of subsequent democratic governments to bring past offenders to trial for crimes against humanity while giving pardons to those who did face trial. By understanding why the violation of human rights occurred, future infringements can be avoided and fundamental rights will be awarded to all humans.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFH0004115, ucf:44861
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004115
