Models of International Politics for Protecting the Environment of Celestial Bodies
- Paper number
IAC-10.E3.4.4
- Author
Dr. Kazuto Suzuki, Hokkaido University, Japan
- Year
2010
- Abstract
For protecting the environment of Celestial bodies, it is not enough to set up rules and regulations alone. There should be a political mechanism to make sure that these rules and regulations are complied and implemented. This paper argues that there are three possible models derived from theories of international politics. First, the theory of hegemonic stability assumes that the hegemon power would exercise its power to force other states to comply with the rules, but in today’s circumstances, the hegemonic state, the United States, may not have incentive to exercise its power because of the lack of political willingness and political resources. Second model is liberal institutionalism which assumes that the states may converge their interests in order to avoid conflicts and high transaction costs. However, it would be too late for protecting Celestial environment when the states recognized the cost of pollution. Thus, the third model, constructivist approach, would be the most suitable model for protecting the environment of Celestial bodies. The constructivist approach focuses on the power of discourse to alter the behaviour of states, and if there is a strong voice from international community, states may increase the awareness of this issue and put effort for protecting celestial environment. In doing so, the rule of “norm entrepreneur” would be very important to provide ideas and bring relevant actors into the discussion. This paper argues that it should be IAA which has the potential and responsibility for playing the role of “norm entrepreneur”.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-10.E3.4.4.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.