Tutor profile: Jennifer L.

How to approach LR?

There are three things to keep in mind: 1. Scope: look at wording, look at what the question is actually asking you to address. Take note of words that limit scope and relevancy of the statements. 2. Directionality: identify the arrow of the argument. If the structure is A -> B, what is A and what is B. 3. Sufficient and necessary: identify what is sufficient and necessary.

What is the theory of realism in International Relations?

Simply put, the IR theory of realism is the underlying skepticism that moral structures of any kind hold any weight in the international arena (or interactions between countries). Meaning that political theorists who identify as realists don't believe that there can be a moral system of justice or accountability that will actually constrict the actions of political entities. While we understand that actors in domestic politics are not allowed to do certain things (murdering or blackmailing others), and will be punished by the justice system if they do commit these actions, realists don't think that any international system can restrict these actors from taking these same actions. This is because we don't have an international police or regulatory system of some kind that functions above the political entities. The UN, a well-known international organization, really functions horizontally in the international arena.

Give an example of how political, social, and economic systems and structures of a time and region can contribute to the art work that develops. You may reference any artistic era(s) in the western or eastern hemisphere. A comprehensive answer can address the art patrons, artistic subject matter, and art mediums that arise from the settings that contribute to their conception.

During the Middle Ages in Europe, the religion of Christianity dominated both social and political systems. Governments were guided and ruled by religious figures and tenets, and religion was pervasive in all aspects of individuals lives. This extended to art in the Middle Ages and art was primarily sponsored by the Church. Art was primarily sponsored by the Church to depict the societal importance of religion and reflected a focus on Christianity. Secular subject matters were rare to come by and there was no flourishing middle class to sponsor artwork for private homes. Thus, artwork in the Middle Ages often focused on depicting the life of Christ (with the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ being very common).