POLI 105 Exam 1 VCU: Comprehensive Practice Exam
2026/2027 latest update with Rationales
International Relations Theory | 100+ Questions with
Detailed Explanations/guaranteed pass!!
, Part I: Foundational Concepts and Key Terms
Section A: Core IR Vocabulary
1. Adding variables to a theory to try to extend its explanatory coverage is generally
considered to weaken a theory. This concept is known as:
A. Parsimony
B. Degeneration
C. Sovereignty
D. Anarchy
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Degeneration occurs when theorists add auxiliary variables to rescue a theory from
failed predictions, but this comes at the cost of theoretical elegance. A theory that explains everything
with ten variables is weaker than one that explains the same phenomena with one. The concept
highlights the trade-off between explanatory breadth and theoretical strength.
2. IR theories seek to explain as much as possible with a single variable, making a theory
stronger. This principle is called:
A. Degeneration
B. Sovereignty
, C. Parsimony
D. Constructivism
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Parsimony is the principle that simpler explanations are preferable to complex ones.
In IR, a parsimonious theory uses the fewest possible variables to explain the widest range of
phenomena. Neorealism, for example, explains state behavior through the single variable of systemic
anarchy.
3. All states are defined by their political and territorial integrity. This concept guides the
international system and is known as:
A. Anarchy
B. Sovereignty
C. Hegemony
D. Collective security
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sovereignty is the foundational principle of the Westphalian state system. It means
that each state has supreme authority within its territorial borders and no external actor has the right to
intervene in its domestic affairs. This principle, established by the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648, remains
the organizing principle of international relations.
4. The absence of any controlling authority over the nation is known as:
, A. Sovereignty
B. Hegemony
C. International anarchy
D. Balance of power
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: International anarchy does not mean chaos; it means the absence of a central world
government or overarching authority above states. In an anarchic system, states must rely on themselves
for security (self-help). This condition is a core assumption of both realism and liberalism, though they
disagree on its implications.
5. Joseph Lepgold notes that there is a solution to which potential problem in studying
international relations?
A. The levels of analysis problem
B. The theory vs. policy debate
C. The gains debate
D. The security dilemma
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Lepgold argues that the tension between theoretical rigor and policy relevance
(theory vs. policy debate) can be resolved. Theories can be both scientifically sound and useful for
practitioners. The debate concerns whether IR scholarship should prioritize abstract generalization or
practical guidance for policymakers.
2026/2027 latest update with Rationales
International Relations Theory | 100+ Questions with
Detailed Explanations/guaranteed pass!!
, Part I: Foundational Concepts and Key Terms
Section A: Core IR Vocabulary
1. Adding variables to a theory to try to extend its explanatory coverage is generally
considered to weaken a theory. This concept is known as:
A. Parsimony
B. Degeneration
C. Sovereignty
D. Anarchy
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Degeneration occurs when theorists add auxiliary variables to rescue a theory from
failed predictions, but this comes at the cost of theoretical elegance. A theory that explains everything
with ten variables is weaker than one that explains the same phenomena with one. The concept
highlights the trade-off between explanatory breadth and theoretical strength.
2. IR theories seek to explain as much as possible with a single variable, making a theory
stronger. This principle is called:
A. Degeneration
B. Sovereignty
, C. Parsimony
D. Constructivism
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Parsimony is the principle that simpler explanations are preferable to complex ones.
In IR, a parsimonious theory uses the fewest possible variables to explain the widest range of
phenomena. Neorealism, for example, explains state behavior through the single variable of systemic
anarchy.
3. All states are defined by their political and territorial integrity. This concept guides the
international system and is known as:
A. Anarchy
B. Sovereignty
C. Hegemony
D. Collective security
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sovereignty is the foundational principle of the Westphalian state system. It means
that each state has supreme authority within its territorial borders and no external actor has the right to
intervene in its domestic affairs. This principle, established by the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648, remains
the organizing principle of international relations.
4. The absence of any controlling authority over the nation is known as:
, A. Sovereignty
B. Hegemony
C. International anarchy
D. Balance of power
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: International anarchy does not mean chaos; it means the absence of a central world
government or overarching authority above states. In an anarchic system, states must rely on themselves
for security (self-help). This condition is a core assumption of both realism and liberalism, though they
disagree on its implications.
5. Joseph Lepgold notes that there is a solution to which potential problem in studying
international relations?
A. The levels of analysis problem
B. The theory vs. policy debate
C. The gains debate
D. The security dilemma
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Lepgold argues that the tension between theoretical rigor and policy relevance
(theory vs. policy debate) can be resolved. Theories can be both scientifically sound and useful for
practitioners. The debate concerns whether IR scholarship should prioritize abstract generalization or
practical guidance for policymakers.
