Which of the following are variants of International Liberalism? 
(A) Complex Interdependence 
(B) Institutional Liberalism 
(C) Republican/Democratic Liberalism 
(D) Neoliberalism 
(E) Classical Liberalism 
Choose the correct answer from the options given below : 

Correct option is C

The correct selection includes (A), (B), and (C), which represent recognized variants of International Liberalism in international relations theory. Here’s how each fits
1. (A) Complex Interdependence: Developed by Robert Keohane and Joseph Nye, complex interdependence emphasizes the multiple channels of interaction between states (such as economic, environmental, and social), which create mutual dependencies. This theory posits that states are less likely to engage in conflict due to these interconnected relationships, aligning with liberal principles of cooperation.
2. (B) Institutional Liberalism: This variant of liberalism underscores the role of international organizations (like the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and International Monetary Fund) in facilitating cooperation, establishing norms, and providing a framework for peaceful resolution of disputes. Institutional liberalism argues that these institutions help reduce the likelihood of conflict by creating mechanisms for transparency and accountability.
3. (C) Republican/Democratic Liberalism: Also known as Democratic Peace Theory, this variant argues that democracies are less likely to go to war with each other due to shared democratic values, transparent political processes, and accountability to citizens. This theory supports the idea that democratic states foster peace and stability, promoting a cooperative international environment.
Options (D) Neoliberalism and (E) Classical Liberalism are not included in this selection:
· Neoliberalism is a significant approach in international relations but focuses more specifically on the importance of institutions within an anarchic system, and is typically associated with the broader neoliberal institutionalism framework.
· Classical Liberalism emphasizes individual rights, free markets, and limited government, primarily within a domestic context, and does not directly address international relations dynamics in the same way as other liberal variants.
Thus, the correct answer is: (A), (B), and (C) only.
Information Booster
1. Complex Interdependence: Encourages peace by highlighting interconnectedness, making war costly and cooperation beneficial.
2. Institutional Liberalism: Argues that international institutions create a platform for trust-building, reducing the likelihood of conflict.
3. Democratic Liberalism: Asserts that democracies are naturally inclined to cooperate with each other, forming the basis of Democratic Peace Theory.