Why do liberals believe that global order tends towards cooperation?

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• balance applies to international affairs, and that it is reflected in the overlapping interests of states. 

1. few inter-state wars

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   • since WW2, there have been very few inter-state wars, and definitely no total wars.  International affairs have been defined by order, not disorder

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• 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. 

1. War is unfeesible

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   • too costly to fight - Total War, WMD and guerilla tactic- no longer rational. 

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

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• 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. 

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• 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.