Tutor profile: Lance K.

What role do think tanks and lobbyists play in the decision making processes of the U.S. Government?

Think tanks and lobbyists both play significant roles in the decision making processes of the U.S. Government. Think tanks provide information, preferably without bias, to the government to make informed decisions regarding current affairs. Lobbyists are entirely biased: seeking to advance their particular championed cause. Lobbyists utilize persuasion, often with money or favors, to secure the support of their cause. This support can oftentimes be to the detriment of the whole.

What options are available to world leaders to resolve differences on the international stage?

There are three primary resolution methods for world leaders on the international stage: direct meeting, mediation, and organizational pleas. Direct meetings are the simplest and most straightforward method, where the two leaders of the feuding states meet to discuss and resolve their differences. Mediation is similar to direct meetings, however, a neutral third-party oversees the meetings to maintain order. An organizational plea would occur with an organization such as the United Nations, which in turn would assist in settling the dispute.

In what ways is Globalization a threat to national security for a sovereign nation?

Globalization raises several concerns regarding the national security of sovereign nations. Inequality, loss of sovereignty, and cultural homogenization are all predicted consequences of the increased global interconnectedness associated with globalization. Inevitably representation will be unevenly distributed, in turn causing social unrest and strife. Such unrest and strife, according to radicalization models, would lead to increased terrorist activity.