Why do liberals believe that global order tends towards cooperation?

Why do liberals believe that global order tends towards cooperation?

1. Based on reciprocity

   • balance applies to international affairs, and that it is reflected in the overlapping interests of states. 
   • few inter-state wars
     • since WW2, there have been very few inter-state wars, and definitely no total wars.  International affairs have been defined by order, not disorder

2. States are not unitary actors

   • states are not ''billiard-balls' but are complex political structures where power is dispersed - people no longer feel war is ''morally acceptable'' and therefore, a government is likely to loose power, as public do not accept unless self-defence. 
   • War is unfeesible
     • too costly to fight - Total War, WMD and guerilla tactic- no longer rational. 

3. Economic interdependance

   • Cooperation amongst states is encouraged by economic interdependences, particularly in the form of international trade, which also helps to promote general prosperity.

4. Democracy

   • The trend towards democracy also promotes cooperation and reduces the incidence of war because democratic states share the same culture and values. Plus, more international checks to prevent dictatorships. 

5. Global Governance

   • The trend towards global governance supports cooperation among states by establishing norms and increased trust, helping to facilitate rule-governed behaviour. The UN provides a forum for discussion, which consequently reduces friction as states can discuss political disagreements without conflict.