Is this a good example of balance-of-power politics where neither great power (Russia vs the US; or Saudi Arabia vs Iran) can let either side gain too much of an advantage?

These are well-polished, thought-provoking, ‘big’ (meaning they could result in a long answer or debate) questions that should relate directly to at least one class topic and include at least one concept (e.g. balance-of-power, sovereignty). They can be more theoretical in nature or very practical (e.g. relating to a current or historical issue in international relations). It’s ok if you actually have a decent or very convincing answer to this question; you can include some of that, too. Note: These don’t have to be completely unique never-thought-of-before questions. A few examples: The Syrian civil war has been going on for nearly a decade now with no clear end in sight and many foreign states (and non-state actors) deeply involved. Is this a good example of balance-of-power politics where neither great power (Russia vs the US; or Saudi Arabia vs Iran) can let either side gain too much of an advantage? Or is this about other factors like state failure and non-state actors (like rebel and terrorist groups) trying to gain power in Syria? The ‘modern sovereign state’ has become the dominant political and social organization of today’s international system. But if these early states were forged in war, why aren’t the nearly 200 states that we have today all basically little fighting machines — and currently fighting one another more or less constantly? Length: 1-3 sentences per question These aren’t just the standard off-the-cuff questions asked during tutorials or via email to your TA or the professor (though the TAs and I do want to hear these!). Your grade will depend on: Does your question address an issue (very broadly defined) relevant to international relations (2 points)? Does your question make a connection between an IR theory and/or concept(s)? (2 points)? It is a thought-provoking or ‘big’ question that could lead to further discussion?