Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

A concept developed by Michel Foucault describing the governance of populations through the regulation of life processes and bodies.

A democratic model emphasizing informed discussion and reasoning among citizens before making collective decisions.

A Marxist concept describing a transitional state in which the working class holds political power to dismantle capitalism and build socialism.

Fukuyama's argument that liberal democracy may represent the final form of human government after ideological evolution.

The theory that all complex organizations, including democracies, tend to develop oligarchic leadership structures over time.

A judicial philosophy where courts are more willing to interpret the constitution broadly and overturn laws or policies to promote social change.

Ernesto Laclau and Chantal Mouffe advanced radical democracy emphasizing agonistic pluralism and contestation within democratic politics.

The concept of luck or chance in political power, which rulers must skillfully manage alongside virtù (personal ability) to maintain authority.

The idea that elected officials have an obligation to carry out the policies promised during their campaign.

The idea that election winners have a public mandate to implement their campaign promises and policy agendas.

This theory holds elected officials should act according to the wishes of their constituents who gave them a mandate through election. It contrasts with the trustee model where officials use their judgment independently.

A theory that in a majority-rule voting system, candidates will position their policies to appeal to the median voter to win elections.

A theoretical approach emphasizing the role of institutions in shaping political behavior and outcomes beyond formal rules.

A political theory that recognizes the diversity of interest groups competing to influence policy.

A conflict that arises when an agent (such as a bureaucrat) has different interests than the principal (such as elected officials).

A theory emphasizing states' pursuit of power and national interest as fundamental in international politics, often prioritizing security and survival.

A theory emphasizing the value of social networks and trust in facilitating cooperation and collective action.

A feminist theory combining the critique of patriarchy with analysis of capitalism’s role in gender oppression.

A principle in political theory that decisions should be made at the most local level possible, only involving higher authorities when necessary.

A system of governance where decision-makers are selected based on expertise in science, technology, or economics rather than political affiliation.

A concept illustrating how individuals acting in their own self-interest can deplete shared resources, harming the collective good.