Tag Archives: Two-Party System

Discussion Three: Domestic vs. International Order

5 Dec

In this discussion, we explore the similarities and differences between domestic and international orders.  We generally agree that there are similarities between the two spheres and that we can apply lessons learned from how we achieve order domestically to the international sphere.  We compare the bipolar order that existed between the US and USSR during the Cold War with the two-party system of American domestic politics.  Ultimately, we are trying to see what relevant lessons and strategies can be applied from the arrangement that existed between the two powers during the Cold War to the American domestic sphere or vice-versa.

Click here to listen to our third roundtable discussion.

To access the ﻿readings﻿ discussed in this podcast, click here.

Our discussion follows the following outline:

Background of the Cold War Order

  1. Two distinct orders emerged between the great powers
  2. US and USSR: bipolar order
  3. US and Western Europe: multilateral

Cold War Order and American Domestic Politics

  1. US and USSR: bipolar order, strong ideological split, difficult to compromise on many issues as interests are inherently and ideologically opposed
  2. American domestic politics: two-party system, difficult to compromise on certain “key” issues, prone to strong ideological splits along party lines
  3. Western European domestic politics: generally multi-party systems, necessitate the formation of governing coalitions