Which alternative approach in IR emphasizes the role of identity, norms, and social constructs in shaping state behavior, rather than focusing solely on material power or economic interests?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is c) Constructivism.
While traditional theories focus on the "hardware" of international relations (weapons, money, and geography), Constructivism focuses on the "software"—the ideas, identities, and social norms that give meaning to those material objects.

Information Booster :

The Core of Constructivist Thought
Constructivism emerged as a major challenge to Realism and Liberalism in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Its central premise is that the international system is not a fixed, objective reality, but a social construct—it is "what states make of it."

Intersubjective Reality: Constructivists argue that the world is built on shared understandings. For example, a nuclear weapon in the hands of a friend (e.g., the UK for the USA) is viewed differently than one in the hands of an enemy (e.g., North Korea), even though the material "power" of the weapon is the same. The difference is the identity and relationship between the actors.

Identity and Interests: Unlike Realists who believe all states have a fixed interest (survival), Constructivists argue that identities determine interests. A state that identifies as a "global hegemon" will have different interests than one that identifies as a "neutral mediator" or a "developing regional power."

The Power of Norms: Norms are collective expectations for proper behavior. Constructivists study how norms like "human rights," "sovereignty," or "taboos against nuclear use" evolve and eventually change how states behave, often even when it goes against their material interests.

Key Thinkers

Alexander Wendt: Famous for the phrase, "Anarchy is what states make of it." He argued that anarchy doesn't automatically lead to conflict; it depends on whether states identify as enemies, rivals, or friends.

Nicholas Onuf: Credited with coining the term "Constructivism" in IR, emphasizing that we live in a "world of our own making."

Martha Finnemore: Focused on how international organizations (like the Red Cross or the UN) "teach" states new norms and behaviors.

Additional Information :

Realism: Focuses almost entirely on material power (military strength) and the survival of the state in an anarchic system. It views identities as irrelevant.

Marxism: Focuses on economic interests and the struggle between classes (the core vs. the periphery). It sees international relations as a byproduct of global capitalism.

Neoliberalism: While it believes in cooperation, it assumes states are rational actors primarily seeking absolute economic gains through institutions. It doesn't focus on the social "identity" of the state.