1. Nye tells us that bipolar systems are unstable and likely to break down into war. Why then, did the Soviet Union and the US not have a war?

2. What were the major characteristics of the European international system in the 19th century? To what extent did these system characteristics keep the system peaceful?

3. What do you think are the main points a Realist and a Liberal would make when debating the ethical implications of US involvement in either Vietnam (1940s-1970s) or Iraq (2003-2008)?

4. Explain the reasons for the end of the Cold War in terms of the "three images" (cited in Nye) of international politics.