Social Science · Class 12
Political Science: International Relations
Learn Political Science: International Relations with notes, examples, and practice questions.
4 sections15–25 min read6 MCQs · 2 examples
Chapter Overview
International relations examines nation-states, diplomacy, war, international organisations, global governance, and India's foreign policy in a multipolar world.
Concepts
- Sovereignty and nation-state system Westphalia 1648
- Balance of power; collective security
- Diplomacy, treaties, international law
- Realism vs liberalism in IR theory
International Organisations
- UN — General Assembly, Security Council, specialised agencies
- IMF, World Bank, WTO
- Regional: EU, ASEAN, SAARC, BRICS
- NGOs and transnational issues — climate, terrorism
India's Foreign Policy
- Panchsheel — peaceful coexistence
- NAM during Cold War
- Nuclear policy; relations with neighbours
- Look East / Act East; strategic autonomy
Solved Examples
Step-by-step solutions — read each step before checking the final answer.
UN Security Council
What is the role of UN Security Council?
- 1Maintains international peace and security
- 2Five permanent members with veto power
Answer
Primary UN body for peace and security; P5 have veto
Panchsheel
What are Panchsheel principles?
- 1Mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity
- 2Non-aggression, non-interference, equality, peaceful coexistence
Answer
Five principles of peaceful coexistence
Key Points to Remember
- ✓ IR shapes war and peace globally
- ✓ UN central but reform debated
- ✓ India seeks multipolar world order
- ✓ Transnational challenges need cooperation
Exam Tips
- • Functions of UN organs
- • India and NAM
- • Two challenges to global governance
Practice MCQs — Political Science: International Relations
Test your understanding with topic-wise multiple choice questions. Explanations appear after each answer.
Question 1 of 6Score: 0/0
UN founded in: