Please post your
Legend of Korra IR descriptive scenes along with equivalent real life samples.
5 pts for the film scene description (1-5 for clarity)
5 pts for the real life scene facts (1-5 for clarity)
5 pts for match (how the scene and real life matched)
5 pts for identifying what IR phenomenon was the scene (1-3 pts for basic concepts, 4-5 for complex concepts)
Online classroom of Ronald Castillo y Maglaqui, Professor of Political Science at the University of Santo Tomas - Faculty of Arts and Letters. But for the time being, starting 2022, this blog serves as a student's public notebook of thoughts while he undertakes his international PhD in Asia Pacific Studies at National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan. Reach him through rmcastillo@ust.edu.ph
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SY, Reinna Madel
ReplyDeleteIn episode 4, Tarrlok proposed to create a task force to capture Amon, the leader of the Equalist group who promotes anti-bender propaganda during the United Republic Council meeting. However, Tenzu, representative of the Air Nation, opposed such an aggressive resolution as it will only further divide the people (the benders and the non-benders). Representative of the Fire Nation agreed with Tarrlock’s idea and he selected himself to lead the task force. Tenzin opposed as this is only Tarrlock’s means to gain more power but Tarrlock reasoned out that his only aim is to help and added that Aang, the previous avatar also used aggressive action to deal with Yakone, a dangerous man. Tarrlock also used the councilmen’s personal fear (harm to all benders, their own friends, and family) to gain the vote of two other representatives and as a result, his proposal was approved.
to be continued
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DeleteSY, Reinna Madel
DeleteIn Book 4, Chapter 1:”After All These Years”, Kuvira proclaimed that the State of Yi is now under her protection.
Scene Description:
Kuvira went to the state of Yi with the intention of unifying the Earth Kingdom then create an “Earth Empire” under her rule. She offered a very “generous” deal to the governor to protect them against the bandits that are pestering his country. Also, Kuvira will let him stay in his position under the condition that the state of Yi will be under her supervision. The governor vehemently denied the offer at first but when he realized that this is only his last option he signed the deal offered by Kuvira to save the lives of his people. Kuvira then proclaimed that the State of Yi is now under her full protection.
King Taewon-gun of Joseon Dynasty promulgated the Isolationist policy thereby closing its doors to trades and international relations with the exception of China. This Dynasty was now known as the Hermit Kingdom (Griffis, 1882). When he was overthrown due to the problems brought by his foreign policy, Japan wanted to renew its relationship with Joseon by sending envoys; however, the envoys were not welcomed. As a response, Japan pressured Joseon to sign the treaty by sending warships. One condition in the treaty is that Joseon will be an independent state (Joseon was a tributary state of China). However, this was just Japan’s measure to put Joseon under its control (Lee et al, 2017).
DeleteIn IR perspective, Kuriva’s action was an example of an offensive Realist. According to this concept, for the state to survive, “States will seek to maximize their power relative to others” and that Hegemony is the best method for this to happen. Kuriva’s goal is to unite the Earth Kingdom. So when the state of Yi was in a very tight situation with its problem with bandits, this is a good opportunity for Kuriva to make the state of Yi under her control. China was very problematic after the Opium War and it greatly affected Joseon as the Isolation policy became a burden. Although reinstating relations with Japan will somehow solve the problem, most of the officials of Joseon are conservative and they were very reluctant with this option. Due to pressure and lack of options, Joseon signed the treaty just like how the governor of Yi pledged his loyalty to Kuriva to save his people. And as the treaty of Ganghwa included Joseon to be an independent state, in reality this never happened. Japan monopolized the trade and expand its influence in Joseon just the same as how the governor remained in his position but became under the rule of Kuriva.
DeleteGUERZON, AGUSTIN III
ReplyDeleteSEASON 4 EPISODE 13
ATTACK OF KUVIRA WITH HUGE MECHA ARMOUR AND US USING NUCLEAR BOMB ON JAPAN
TO BE CONTINUED
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DeleteGUERZON, AGUSTIN III
DeleteKORRA SCENE, EPISODE 12 OF SEASON 4
HISTORICAL EVENT, US BOMBING HIROSHIMA DURING WORLD WAR 2
A. Narration of the Scene
In episode 12 (Day of Colosssus), it shows that Giant Mecha Suit being controlled by Kuvira (Whose goal is to create “Earth Empire” by conquering lands which she and her followers believe belong to earth kingdom(which includes the Republic City)), the giant was so overwhelming that people, wanted to escape the republic city immediately. The Giant Mecha Suit is super-powerful as it is capable of releasing spirit energy cannon that can easily destroy literally almost everything that it hits. To add, the Giant Mecha is also super durable that it is made of high quality metal (Platinum) because it cannot be easily destroyed and malfunction. Despite the efforts of the Avatar and her allies to halt the berserk of the mecha machine by disabling it and using heavy attacks such as dropping a whole building to it, the suit is still overwhelmingly stands. The defenders of Republic City had to deploy a special strategy to find the Achilles Heel of the Giant Mecha (Which was done by using humming bird flying machines in order to create a hole in which would eventually be the cause of defeat/surrender of Kuvira and her giant armor.
B. Historical Event
On the other hand, we can compare what happened in episode 12 during the World War 2 bombing of Japan to Hiroshima. On August 6, 1945 America dropped the bomb in order to lessen the casualties that would cost America if they invaded Japan without utilizing the use of nuclear weapons. The weapons are also strategically dropped in cities of Japan which was significant during the war, as Hiroshima is one of those cities during that time that had large number of industries and military supplies. Ultimately on August 15, 1945 Emperor also surrendered and accepted the fact that the enemy had greater weapon capable of destroying the whole of human civilization and that by being stubborn to stop the war it would only cause absolute defeat and the possible extinction of the Japanese.
C. IR analysis of the scene
DeleteIf we look at it Kuvira’s action is a mixture of both realism and institutionalism perspective. She was an institutionalist not because she believes in cooperation but institutionalist in a sense because she believes that she had the right to claim of the republic city because she thinks that it was a stolen piece of land from earth kingdom. The principle of right and obligation in institutionalism applies to her political actions. She of course is ultimately a realist, as she results to warfare (military action) rather than cooperation because cooperation and alliances are flawed and can be easily severed. She understood the concepts of IR realism by developing a strong army/ military weapon to achieve her own state goals, because it will be easier to achieve self –interest by utilization of military power as it has the power to coerce, because other states would fear your state making decisions internationally virtually favorable for your state. The flaw I saw with Kuvira’s action is that despite her being a realist, she lacked an important aspect in realism (which is prudence). Kuvira didn’t weigh the consequences of her actions carefully, she thought that she was the hegemon and became overly confident and got blinded by the military power she wields. Her overconfidence resulted to her charging in like a sitting duck making the mecha vulnerable to cheese strategies her adversary deploys. If she had acted better in her decision making she could have easily won and conquered the Republic City.
D. Similarities
If we picture it the two are related not as a whole but more of conceptually similar. If we analyze both scenarios are acts of utilizing military powers in order to gain political advantage. Kuvira (Earth Empire) and US (allied force) have both attempted to develop these super-weapons in order to dominate other states and control the international system both opted to become the offensive realist in a sense because both attempted hegemony. Hence, in order for someone to make opposing faction to act accordingly to his-own self-interest the strong political/military very significant. Another similarity to point is that acquiring these super-weapons to dominate or to become the hegemon is not the end but we also need to be guided by prudence (which is also one of the teachings of realist school of thought) that every action should be critically analyzed because your goal as a leader of the state is to succeed in whatever goal ( in this case win the war) decide political/military actions with weighing the consequences. Kuvira’s flaw was that she had failed to properly utilize the power and became too blinded that she had the power to conquer all with her giant suit, unlike U.S. did which decided more carefully weighed the consequences of its actions decided to bomb rather than to invade to result to an overwhelming victory.
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ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteFRAGINAL, LEIF ARDEN A. (3POL2)
DeleteLegend of Korra Episode: Season 3, Episode 6 (Old Wounds)
I. Scene Description
In this scene, Lin and Suyin Baofeng settled their past grievances towards each other through a physical battle. It has been already established in the series the half-sisters already have a strained relationship, but it was revealed in this episode the cause of the strained relationship. This particular scene starts when Lin started yelling at here niece, Opal. Suyin saw what happened and told Lin that their strained relationship is not an excuse for her to treat Opal that way. Stressed because of the chaos that was happening in the city, plus her discomfort with her half-sister, Lin decided to have a time-off by having an acupuncture session with Guo. Guo’s expertise in acupuncture allowed him to discover the reason behind the strained relationship between Suyin and Lin. Thirty years prior, Lin, a police officer then, discovered that her sister became involved in a robbery by the Terra Triad. Stunned by the crime of Suyin and of their mother’s inaction when confronted on what to do with Suyin’s case, Lin developed resentment towards Suyin. Lin will carry her resentment towards Suyin until it boiled down in a battle between the two.
II. Real Life Scene
The scene presented above can be likened to that of King George V of Britain and Kaiser Wilhelm of Germany, when their grievances towards each other became a contributing cause for them to clash head on, which resulted to the First World War. Despite being first cousins, both have reservations towards each other. They oftentimes appeared together in public ceremonies and international conferences, but old wounds caused by years of bitter and constant mistrust towards each other has caused further alienation towards themselves. Kaiser Wilhelm II had deep resentment and envious towards the British and he wanted Germany to ‘have a place under the sun” and compete with Great Britain in terms of might and influence. He viewed himself as the enemy of Britain. King George V, on the other hand, had long suspected his cousin of arms build-up and of challenging Britain as a major power. He also sees his cousin’s actions as provocative as indicative of Germany’s alliance with the Austro-Hungarians, which forced Britain to joined into alliances as well. In the end, their strained relationship with each other helped in the escalation that will lead up to the First World War.
III. Similarities
DeleteBoth Lin and Suyin and the King and the Kaiser are blood-related. Both also have strained relationship toward each other which escalated into a bitter fighting. Both of the pairs’ past experience is a ticking time bomb waiting to explode at any moment. There are also similarities in how the battle between the two blood-related individuals is viewed. During the confrontation between Lin and Suyin, Bolin remarked to a concerned Korra that fights between siblings help in conflict resolution. Bolin perhaps viewed it as necessary and unavoidable. In the King and Kaiser’s case, when the outbreak of hostilities began between the two, their subjects rejoiced as if they are already anticipating it for a long time. The monarchs did not even bother to calm their people’s eagerness for war. As head of state of their respective empires, both represent the overall sentiment of their people – and that is to go to war.
IV. IR Concepts and Phenomena
The situation of Lin and Suyin and that of the Kaiser and King show the metaphorical similarities between the two. International concepts presented in the scenes presented are that of constructivism and of international systems as a story. These concepts include strong emphasis on the role individual actors play in international relations. Based on these two concepts, not only are states concerned with survival or gaining the benefits, human input and human biases also dictate the outcome of how a nation conducts relationship with other states. Under the rights practiced in international relations, the head of state is the embodiment of their nation. Thus, the course taken by King George V and Kaiser Wilhelm during the early 20th century were not solely the product of their government’s policy, but rather, is also heavily influenced by the biases, and decisions made by the King and Kaise. In their case, it lead to the course of war. In Lin and Suyin’s case, their high ranking positions (with Lin being the police chief and Suyin the matriarch of her city-state) prove insufficient to stop their infighting because human motivation is at play. Without the concept espoused by the international system as a story and of constructivism, it will hamper in the in-depth analysis of the rationale why individual state actors act in a certain way in the international arena.
Vilaga, Calvert Simon B.
ReplyDeleteBook 2: Spirits – Episode 6
Movies as Propaganda
“Bolin, look up there. What do you see?” - Iknik Blackstone Varrick
I. Scene Description
Varrick, the eccentric businessman, had casted Bolin as the hero of his newest ‘mover’ titled The Adventures of Nuktuk: Hero of the South. The film features scenes portraying the Northern Water Tribe's occupation of the South with a series of shots of a fictional character named Nuktuk as he rescues Ginger, his damsel in distress, and fights the incursion. Overwhelmed by the positive reactions the audience is giving, Varrick praises Bolin for having achieved a glorious feat. He goes on saying how everyone worships a star and how it can be used to influence what people think and do. With this, he showed how the movers would be used to garner support from the people which will help in persuading Raiko, the president of Republic City, to lend his troops to the war effort in favor of the South in the Water Tribe Civil War. After the mover ended, it was well received by the audience which was evident by their enthusiasm and cheers of endearment towards the fictional character. The scene ended with Bolin, having established his stardom, commenting on how he and his costar, Ginger, have great chemistry, to which Ginger replied with disgust, asserting that it is only true on-screen.
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II. Real Life Scene
DeleteDuring the Second World War, Allied countries had special agencies commission propaganda in a form of films, posters, comic books, etc. for local and foreign consumption. This started a movement from 1941- 1945 which involved the distribution of the said materials that have specific themes of valor, perseverance, and patriotism. All of which were used to increase support for the war effort and commitment to an Allied triumph. Moreover, not only was it a source of entertainment, but it enabled war-torn citizens to boost their confidence and, possibly, raise their hopes up. With this, it drastically changed the playing field, for the influence garnered resulted in the acquisition of war bonds, the enacted pressure towards the opposition, and, most importantly, the maintenance of civilian morale
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III – IV: Similarities and IR Phenomena
DeleteIt is obvious that Varrick’s ‘mover’ is propaganda. The same tactic was used in the Second World War by the Allied forces to battle fascism. It is interesting to see how footages from the mover emanate real situations during war time like how Evil Unalaq mentioned that he will use a ‘water bending doomsday device’ to conquer the world – possibly referencing nuclear weapons. And, having, a character act a certain way that triggers its viewers uncomfortably, a character like Unalaq is enough to hate the personification of the opposition, thus instilling hatred among the people. Moreover, It is true that there would emerge an idol that embodies an idea in times of war that will have a higher cause which people are encourage supporting – a character like United States’ Uncle Sam. Like how the casting of famous actors to portray US soldiers significantly increase participation especially when that individual is influential. Since the character of Nuktuk was created to ‘fight for friends and freedom’, certain jingles can be heard throught the film, referring Nuktuk as their ‘best friend’, how he was battling ‘Northies’ out there in the snow, or how he would punch Unalaq in the mouth when he starts trouble, possibly referencing how silly but effective real life slogans were. Finally, Ginger’s bluntness shows that everything that happens on-screen are just merely illusions, that it is all just leaning towards an idealistic perception of things. With all the enticing dialogue and general feel of the film, the audiences were indeed immersed and are inclined to adopt the mindset of the hero. And that’s what made propaganda so powerful. Their reactions proved that the subliminal messages tickled their pride to the point where they become devoted to act upon their present conflict. With that, It would make civilians more engaged in what’s happening, making them feel a sense of importance and a place in a chaotic situation
Ortiz, Grace Lydel C
ReplyDeleteIn season 2 episode 2, after Korra opened the portal in the south pole, the northern navy landed on the southern shore where Korra’s family was leaving, where the people of the north closed the coastal area of the south and they are being an authoritarian in a sense that they are using power to the people for them to obey the navies order. When Korra asked her uncle Unalaq what is happening, he only said that since Korra opened the southern portal, it is needed for them to protect from people who tries to disturb the spirit, and he told Korra that she have to open another portal in the North, it can also be seen that Unalaq has something more in his mind for his own interest. The elder had a forum wherein they discussed about having their own independence that led them to think about waging war with Unalaq. The scene can be related in the case when Japanese invaded the Philippines, where they used coercion for the people to obey them, and they just landed their navy in the Philippine coast line without any warning at all. They also violated all the human rights of the people causing a civil war between the Japanese and Filipinos. The similarity is that when the northern navy in Korra landed without any warning just like when the Japanese landed on the Philippine shore. In the legend of Korra the elders also had this meeting that wanted their independence back wherein just like in the Philippines before, there had been also guerillas who are privately meeting in one place to plan their civil war with the Japanese in order to attain independence. The international concept here is coercion where the Japanese used their power over the citizen of the Filipinos.
Ramirez, Ramly Cloie Q.
ReplyDeleteBook 2: Rebel Spirits Southern Lights (S2 Ep1)
Unalaq as the symbol of Soft Power
A state may influence the others psychologically either by persuasion or imposition of one’s culture without the use of force and this is commonly referred to as Soft Power. In the Legend of Korra, Season 2, Episode 1, titled Rebel Spirits Southern Lights, Unalaq convinced Korra to be his new air bending teacher when the latter was amazed by the former’s ability to fight the evil spirits. This, in turn, led Korra to accept Unalaq as his new air bending teacher. In relation to IR, Korra is akin to an inferior state who is seeks development and improvement in military strength for the security and protection of her state (her well-being) and other internal development of the state as well as to gain a self-sufficient power while Unalaq is akin to a superpower state who intendedly wanted to influence the other state (Korra) by his capacities and practices, and also to provide a foreign aid to an inferior country. Unalaq simply attract Korra to be his new teacher with an absence of coercion in order for the former to gain the trust of the latter.
In reality, soft power is commonly used by the great power states to influence other states, especially the inferior ones, to attract them through persuasion and gaining a collective interest in order to establish diplomatic ties with them. However, the soft power often aims to manipulate the actions and decisions of the other states so that these actions will be akin to the main interests of the manipulator, the superpower state. Similarly, United States possessed this kind of manipulation, by means of technological advancement, imposition of American culture and commercial dynamics to other regions/countries. Its installation of economic infrastructures to a certain country simply mobilizes Western culture since international trade simultaneously enables the frequent exchange of culture and thus, indirectly influences the other. This kind of practice applies to the general strategy of US in the world today which became more intensive and extensive as what least expected. Correspondingly, Unalaq persuaded Korra to be his new teacher by means of attraction by his great abilities to fight the evil spirits which, in turn, made her to trust him yet, at the end, he betrayed her.
BANZUELA, JAZMEEN E.
ReplyDeleteLegend of Korra Season 2 Episode 3: Civil Wars Part I
Enforcement of Delineation: The establishment of rifts between humanity
I. Narration of Scene
In the opening scene, a group of Northern Water Tribe guards, apparently brought by Unalaq, demanded some members of the Southern Water Tribe to “clear out of the streets and get back” to their home. The aforementioned troops would further impose this statement by creating a barricade, albeit short, of ice in the path to which the receivers of the harsh end could only do so much as to observe in silence. Other waterbenders, presumably from the Northern tribe would establish a blockade in their ports by forming an iceberg-like wall – enacting a harbor lockdown; that is again one may presume to be hinting a great distaste for the Southerner visitors. This would further be discussed in one of the gatherings of the Southern Water tribe wherein, Varrick would state that Unalaq has voted their chieftain representatives out of the palace as well as how the tribe feels excluded and thus troubled by the transpiring discriminatory events. This would somehow insinuate that the tension brewing between the Northerners and Southerners would potentially amount to a civil war.
II. Equivalent in the Realm of Reality
With the aforementioned tension between the Southern and Northern Water tribe is comparable to the current stance of the executive and loyalists of United States of America against immigrants. Upon national elections, incumbent president Donald Trump has advocated ‘making America great again’ which would entail an ‘America for Americans’ only type of propaganda. The triumph of Trump in the elections would formally establish this and manifest itself in the following policies and projects such as the wall built in between Mexico and America and his immigration policies which imposed travel-bans on certain countries, notably Muslim nations. His supporters would be keen on reinforcing this and would openly engage in discriminatory acts against immigrants residing within the States. From these events would controversy arise and several protests from the immigrant community who feels wronged as they believe that they have every right to pursue their endeavors in United States, especially when they have followed the legal means in the said pursuit.
III. The Intersection of Fiction & Reality
DeleteBoth are interrelated on the grounds of the conflict between immigrants and the country where they are settling at. The tension is further fueled by acts of aggression and subtle policies enforced by the ruler of the state. Another factor is the supposed mentality of antagonism on the part of the “original” residents of the State is something withheld for a long period of time to which upon the emergence of a catalyst in the form of a leader, reached the boiling point and thus giving leeway to brash courses of actions. The aggrievement on the part of the immigrants has also opened the possibility of a much graver repercussions not only limited to the nations involved but also the system of the international arena.
IV. International Relations Concepts Applied
The concepts that are apparent in the given circumstances are: the clash of civilizations by Huntington where one of the reasons as to why societies fail to unite lies in their cultural differences as well as the strong adherence and bias to ones’ own identity as part of a certain group which is said to be aggravated by modernization and growth of civilization-consciousness and the fact that these differences (cultural) are hard to compromise especially in the case of religion that has a rigid delineation of beliefs and practices. With the supposed influx of immigrants, the original inhabitants of a nation might feel alienated as well as deprived from some of their expected benefits and rights such as employment; one of the reasons for the antagonistic attitude of “Americans” against the incoming immigrants is the perceived added competition in job-hunting to which is asserted to be something that should be rightfully given to the residents. This would further boil down to the concept of both realism as well as constructivism wherein there is the aim for survival, in these condition, survival of the ‘original’ inhabitants and their resources, which they alone, presumably, has the right to; but closely intersecting with the constructivists’ focus on social norms to which beliefs and customs possess a significant role in politics, in the international arena at that.
Soliman, Maria Carmelle Angela A.
ReplyDeleteSeason 4 Episode 1: After All These Years
The Establishment of a closer alliance between the United Republic of Nations and Earth Kingdom
To be continued
I. Scene Narration
DeleteAfter the modification of the Central City Station, President Raiko held a ceremony for its reopening where he gave credit to Asami Sato and Future Industries for modernizing the railing system and establishing a stronger connection between the United Republic of Nations and the Earth Kingdom. In regard to this recognition, Asami Sato was given the honor of cutting the ribbon.
II. Real life event
In relation to the real life events, forming alliances in the international arena has always been an integral part of a state’s political affairs which is deemed to be necessary for their survival. The establishment of the alliance between the United States and the Philippines is an epitome of a partnership formed by a common history which dates back during the American occupation in the Philippine Archipelago. Prior to the Trump and Duterte Administrations, US and Philippines once shared good ties in political terms. At present, United States and Philippines no longer share an exemplary relations with each other due to changes in administration and withdrawal of alliances which can also be a result of differences in political ideologies of both heads of state.
III. Match Between Fiction and Reality
With regard to the scene in the episode about the establishment of the alliance between the Earth Kingdom and the United Republic of Nations is a symbol of partnership to be further tested by military, political, and economic influences which may constitute to a certain kind of hard power. In the latter part of Season 4, Kuvira announces her plan to invade the United Republic which was known by Zhu Li which then led to the early execution of the plan. The former allies had become enemies but was later restored. Philippines and USA, during the Obama Administration, shared good alliances with each other but the change in the administration of both states also resulted to a change in their alliances. US President Donald Trump is highly unfavored to immigrants whereas diplomacy between US and Philippines weakened.
IV. International Relations Concepts
The International Relations concept in the scene is the presence of diplomatic relations and hard power that led to further unrest between the two nations. Diplomacy was seen in the establishment of alliances between the Earth Kingdom and the United Republic of Nations. Hard power was epitomized in the coercive force that occured when Kuvira and her army invaded the United Republic of Nations.
TRAZONA, ANDREA L.
ReplyDeleteBook 4: Enemy at the Gates (Episode 5)
"The army is here to project strength. You're here to present peace." - Kuvira [To Bolin]
Bolin has found his purpose when he joined Kuvira and her army in the mission to allegedly unify the whole Earth Empire in peace. While they were on the train to Zaofu, Kuvira announced that she wants him to be a part of the "inner circle" for he has proven himself worthy and would be the one to persuade Suyin to surrender Zaofu and join the Great Unitor. At the time of Bolin's acceptance of the offer, Kuvira opened the train's windows and revealed their arrival in Zaofu together with their massive army in the valley. When Bolin questioned Kuvira whether the presence of troops will send a wrong message to Suyin, she answered, "The army is here to project strength. You're here to present peace."
Delete[To be continued..]
One could relate this scene to the American Foreign Policy over the years. In a way, the view of one of the conservative internationalists, Theodore Roosevelt and his "speak softly, but carry a big stick" realism is expressed through Bolin as Kuvira's soft voice and through the massive army and other machinery as her big stick.
DeleteIn addition, one could also relate Kuvira's plan and the Obama's administration to Joseph Nye's concept of smart power wherein hard and soft power is reinforced with each other.Obama has diverged from the ways of the previous administration and adopted peaceful engagement alongside containment which brings us to another term - coercive diplomacy.
DeleteThe most apparent manifestation of this term is the presence of Kuvira's huge army with her. It is an unspoken threat of punishment for non-compliance making compliance or the surrender of Zaofu as the preferable choice for Suyin.
DeleteCalinisan, Jamaela Cherina Marie A.
ReplyDeleteIn Book 4 – Episode 5 (Enemy at the Gates), Earth Empire’s military forces have gone to the city of Zaofu. Baatar Jr. told Kuvira how excited he is about how the Earth Empire will finally be united but Kuvira told him not to get ahead of himself and further stated that securing his hometown won’t be like any other city. Moreover, Kuvira opposed the idea of Baatar Jr. when he announced that he is ready to take Zaofu with the use of force and said that the eyes of the world are on them now and that they must do it the right way.
At present, North Korea is one of the most secured nations in the world. North Korea’s national security, if viewed from the perspective of an outsider, has gone to the extremes to the point that citizens of the country are obligated to do the compulsory military service, social media platforms are blocked and the people do not have access to the internet; it is also considered as a threat to most nations due to its military capacity. North Korea is the perfect example of a government-controlled nation in order to secure and preserve itself.
These two scenarios can be interrelated with each other since the goal of Kuvira was to unify and secure the Earth Empire and the same goes for North Korea’s supreme leader Kim Jong-un who has put upon too much security on his nation. Kuvira’s military forces are well-equipped and are considered to be a strong force which could be likened to that of the military force of North Korea. Also, both Kuvira and Kim Jong-un are considered to be threatening leaders to other nations.
The IR phenomenon which is exemplified in both scenarios is security dilemma under the concept of realism because for a realist, survival is the main goal of a state. Under security dilemma, the state’s actions are aimed at heightening its security through making strong alliances, strengthening its military forces, and equipping themselves with military weapons. This is considered as a threat to other nations because under the concept of realism, one state will always be in doubt about the intentions of the actions of the other state(s) and this is clearly shown in both examples stated above.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteDumanil, Patrisha Louise E.
ReplyDeleteIn episode 9 of season 4, Korra and the other 4 empires’ leaders and empire elders have had the chance to interrogate Bataar Jr. about the plan of Kuvira of attacking and taking over the United Republic and establish a united earth empire. In this scene, one can see that Korra and Bataar’s mother, Suyin, have been speaking of different ways that would further persuade Bataar to spill it.
In my view, this scene had been a reflection of a story in history; not the exact same situation but rather the view on power of ideas, the power of judgment, intellect, and rationality. The way Korra and Suyin speak is power. Yes, it is, for the reason that if only they get to hit the right spot, it would make Bataar to give in and Kuvira’s plan would have been over. The story of history that has dwelled too much in ideologies and principles was the cold war. In this case, it’s not about the United States and the Soviet Union but rather the opposing forces of Bataar and his secrets and Korra with her allies which are the other nations.
Looking at the perspective of realism in this case thus proposes the idea that man’s rationality manifests in situations where it most suffices. In this scene, the wrath of man about losing something that either affects him or his people made one speak of words that would threaten its opponent and thus would threaten the entirety of the land. One must remember that before destructions happen there were opposing concurrencies that trigger such annihilation. What prompts all wars to happen is the desire to rule and to see what they aspire to happen be it for the better or for the worse. Words are powerful, what more if those words come from the one in the highest authority.
Dwelling on wars and battles that have become extensively chaotic and violent makes one stand as someone too single minded. International relations is about all kinds of power. Human beings are created with distinct kinds of capabilities and every capability has such competence to declare wars. The Cold War was the only war that has not casted blood on its metaphorical expedition but has caused huge damages and thus had left a scar in history. The power of minds is the power to manipulate the enemy, the power to manipulate the war itself.
TOPACIO, JOSE ARTURO A.
ReplyDeleteS4E6: The Battle of Zaofu
In the episode, the Earth Kingdom, led by Kuvira, attempts to conquer the city-state of Zaofu within the Earth kingdom, led by Suyin Beifong. After the fall of Zaofu, Kuvira forces everyone to bow to her as a sign of allegiance. When his father and brother do not, Bataar Jr, Kuvira's ally, ordered them to be arrested.
The fall of Si Chang in the Chinese Civil War forced the Western backed Chiang Kai Shek government in exile to Taiwan. The communist state that followed was one of brutal suppression of dissent and authoritarianism under Mao Tse Tung.
This scene can be matched by the effects of the civil war Within families, ideology was often split between fathers and sons like in the scenario of the episode. This led to the Cultural Revolution after the war where the old Nationalist ideals were stamped out. The Earth Kingdom in the series is also a stand-in for China, which furthers the point.
The IR phenomenon that can be seen is that of realism. When conflicting ideologies, like the one between the communists and nationalists clash, the result is that eventually one or the other must be suppressed in order to maintain a strong state, which is also Kuvira's goal for the Earth Kingdom.
CULALA, JEWEL M.
ReplyDeleteSeason 4 Episode 3: The Coronation
I. Kuvira’s Assertion of Power from the Episode “The Coronation”
After some time, it was finally the coronation of the new Earth Kingdom King and Prince Wu of the Hou-Ting Dynasty was crowned to be the King of All the Earth Lands and Glorious Defender of Ba Sing Se. Just a moment after he was crowned king, Prince Wu awarded Kuvira for her excellent service to the realm by honoring her with the highest medal of their nation—the Kyoshi Medal of Freedom. Even though Raiko in the early scene of the episode assured everyone that Kuvira gave him a word that she’d step down, this former statement became contradictory with the speech she delivered during the coronation. Kuriva believed that it was time to end what she called the “pathetic” rules of kings and queens and declared that from then on, there would be no Earth Kingdom and the Prince shall not have any authority but her. Kuvira asserted her power to the realm and a new Earth Empire was then born.
II. Deng Xiaoping’s Assertion of Power
In March 1974, Deng Xiaoping asserted power over Zhou Enlai, the first Premier of the People’s Republic of China when he robbed him the opportunity to present himself at the Sixth Special Session of the United Nations. Zhou Enlai should have been the delegate since he has been the founder of China’s diplomatic posture for a long withstanding period of time. Deng Xiaoping’s assertion was actually backed by Mao Zedong with the purpose of puncturing Zhou’s reputation to bring about their planned redistribution of power at the Party Central.
III. The De Facto Governments of The Legend of Korra and China
Even though the two instances differ in so many aspects, they both claimed power without any formal decision in their favor. Kuriva robbed Prince Wu his authority during his coronation while Deng Xiaoping robbed Zhou Enlai the capacity to represent China in the United Nations delegation. Usually, de facto governments assert power to achieve a purpose they believe the current head of their government cannot achieve. Kuriva believed that only when “pathetic” rule of kings and queens are put to an end will the Earth Kingdom not fall into such incredible disarray. On the other hand, Deng Xiaoping and Mao Zedong believed that what China celebrates as Zhou Enlai’s diplomatic achievements are not really its success and what was needed was the planned redistribution of power. If Kuriva was the de facto in the Legend of Korra, Deng Xiaoping was the de facto of China. In the Legend of Korra, if Kuriva was the de facto leader, its de jure government would then be Prince Wu who was rightfully crowned and legitimized. Consequently, in China, Deng Xiaoping became the de facto leader for years while Zhou Enlai was its de jure government as it was him who was the Premier of the People’s Republic of China.
CULALA, JEWEL M.
ReplyDeleteSeason 4 Episode 3: The Coronation
(Continuation)
IV. Diplomatic Recognition: De Jure and De Facto Governments
In international relations, diplomatic recognition is a very important matter since it doesn’t only concern a unilateral political act with other states but also has international legal consequences. Recognition can be accorded as either a de facto or a de jure. A de facto government exists even without being legally recognized by the official laws while a de jure government is a government that is according to the official laws. In the two instances presented earlier—in the Legend of Korra and in China’s case, they serve as corroboration to the existence of de facto governments. However, it should also be noted that a de facto government is only a fact, but is not legal and some states may not recognize it diplomatically because it is still the de jure government that they treat as the legitimate government of that particular state. Take for example Kuriva’s case when Suyin came to her as the representative of the world leaders and asked her to step down because she wasn’t viewed as the legitimate leader of the Earth Kingdom. It is important to analyze whether a particular government is a de jure or a de facto since only in the former where diplomatic representatives are exchanged and reflects the diplomatic recognition of states which are legal and rightful.
Roldan, Jericho Cesar M.
ReplyDeleteIn Season 4, Episode 3–entitled “The Coronation”, Prince Wu is coronated as king of the Earth Kingdom. He gave his speech and then awarded Kuvira for her service with the highest honor that the nation could give—the Kyoshi Medal of Freedom. Kuvira then took the stage and started her speech. He started on the monarchs saying that they caused the fall and disarray of the Earth Kingdom and then she denounced the authority of Wu saying that he has no authority to rule and that she, Kuvira as the Great Uniter, will bring prosperity to the new Earth Empire because it should be technology and innovation that would keep the nation forward. In real life, there could be two historical events that could be compared to this scene. First is the rise of Nazi Germany under the leadership of Adolf Hitler. Kuvira is like Adolf Hitler. Kuvira wants to unite the Earth Kingdom and then turn it into the “Earth Empire”. It is just the same as when Adolf Hitler wanted to strengthen Germany and announcing that it would be the Third Reich, and then conquer neighboring states so that there would be a unified Europe. The other one is the forced dethronement of Hsuan-tung Puyi as emperor of China. Prince Wu is like Hsuan-tung Puyi in the sense that they are both monarchs and were dethroned because the nation is being democratized and that monarchs are not seen as effective anymore to control the nation. Kuvira dethroned Prince Wu and Hsuan-tung Puyi was forcefully dethroned when China wanted to liberate itself from the monarchy. China was impeded by tradition just like when Kuvira said during her speech that these monarchs with their tradition caused disarray to their nation.
In analyzing the scene mentioned in the Season 4, Episode 3 of Legend of Korra, there are two theories in International Relation that could be seen—Institutionalism and Hegemonic Peace theory. There is institutionalism because Kuvira wanted order and that she wanted to conquer the whole Earth Kingdom to achieve that order. Institutions could be seen as rules and therefore the rule of Kuvira to bring order to the Earth Kingdom could be perceived as an institutionalist approach. Hegemonic Peace is another theory that could be seen in the scene. Kuvira wanted to establish order, and that order will bring prosperity to the Earth Kingdom. There is that sense of security and stronger consolidation and unification in the region.
LABOTON, AIESHA BHEL C.
ReplyDeleteS3E3: The Earth Queen
In the Episode, team Avatar learns that the Earth Queen's secret police, the Dai Li, are capturing airbenders. One of their friends, Kai, who is a thief, is captured and sent to prison where is forced to serve in the army. Kai would later desert the army.
Within the Chinese government following the Communist victory, the government cracked down heavily upon subversive elements that posed a threat to stability of the Chinese state, and one of the main issues the government had was that of the ethnic struggles for independence of the minority group. Of these minority groups, the largest of which was the Tibetan independence movement.
This scene where the Earth Kingdom is actively hunting for airbenders shows how the Earth Kingdom practices these techniques of suppression as well. Since the Earth Kingdom represents China and the Air nomads is Tibet, the domination of the airbenders by the earthbenders shows how the Chinese have dominated Tibet, jail their intellectuals, and sometimes even conscript them in the army in order to remove their ethnic consciousness.
The IR phenomenon in this then, is that of Schellings "diplomacy of violence" which is how the Earth Kingdom dominated another kingdom, that of the Air nomads. Schelling says that instead of words, violence is used by states to threaten other into complying. Like the Chinese and Tibetans, as with the Earth Kingdom and the Air nomads under their rule, violence and this authoritarian state go hand in hand.
In "Kuvira's Gambit", there is this part where Wu and Mako help evacuate Republic City while Asami and Varrick assemble a group of flying mechasuits for defense. But the attack by Kuvira's team were made earlier than expected leading to a devastating aftermath. With a superweapon placed strategically then used, the Republic's navy were overwhelmed and were ravaged to pieces. This led to Raiko's surrender. This part can be compared to the Japan-US event in WWII where Hiroshima and Nagasaki were annhilated by the surprise use of fire bombs and an atomic bomb by the US. Japan in this period were preparing and training its military for offense and defense. But the bomb used in Hiroshima, Little Boy-which was a superweapon unveiled by the US for mass destruction, was dropped in the air at an unexpected time and was strategically made to explode 1000m above the city for massive destruction in the city's circumference. Due to the desolation received by Japan, which was branded as one of the deadliest conflict in history, Japan then surrendered.
ReplyDeleteREYES, FRANCES ADELLE
ReplyDeleteBook 2: Spirits, Episode 5: Peacekeepers
“I'm very concerned by what's happening down there. But I don't think it's the Republic's place to interfere with internal Water Tribe matters.” - Raiko to Korra and Varrick
With the arrival of the Northern Water tribe men led by Unalaq in the shores of the South, tensions arose between the two groups and this news has reached other nations. In an attempt to convince Raiko, the President of the United Republic, to send troops to fight on the side of the South, Avatar Korra arrives in Republic City with Varrick informing her that he has secured an appointment with the president. In the said meeting, Raiko rejects Korra’s idea of sending the United Forces to the South because he believes that such a dispute can be solved diplomatically between the two tribes. This led to Korra, following Varrick’s advice, to go behind the president’s back and talk to the General of the United Forces, which then ultimately fails after Mako, who believes that the United Forces should stay put because they should not be fighting a battle that has nothing to do with them, revealed the plan to the President beforehand.
This situation is similar to the reluctance of US during the Rwandan genocide in 1994. After its failure in Somalia the year before, it had vowed never to return to a conflict it could not understand, between clans and tribes it did not know. The same with Raiko, the White House at the time persuaded the Rwandan government to do everything in their power to end the violence immediately, while maintaining their decision not to interfere.
The general liberal theory of Moravscik applies to this scenario with its three core assumptions. (1) Individuals and private groups are the fundamental actors in world politics. Raiko and Clinton were both in a precarious position regarding conflict resolutions that will affect many civilians. (2) States represent some dominant subset of domestic society, whose interests they serve. Raiko was adamant in his decision not to interfere because he did not want his troops to be in between the conflict that may cost their lives, at the same time, it would not have been a wise decision for Clinton to engage the US in another operation after failing the previous one, for it will further the resentment that they have already received. (3) The configuration of these preferences across the international system determines State behavior. The preference of the domestic society which the state represents affect their behavior on certain matters. Raiko was focused on maintaining the United Forces and Clinton was focused on maintaining its vow. The logic of appropriateness of the constructivists - where rationality is heavily mediated by social norms - can also be seen in this scene.
Palad, Angelica S.
ReplyDelete“The Battle of Zaofu” season 4, episode 6
Kuvira claims that her goal for her constituents is equality that she can provide enough resources such as wealth, foods, equipment, and military forces for protection to convince Suyin to join her army. However, Suyin didn’t accept her proposal which led to “The Battle of Zaofu”. Battered, Korra finally goes into the Avatar State but Korra sees her own face staring back at her black with the Avatar State that gives Kuvira the upper-hand and was about to stab Korra to death when Jinora and Opal finally engage into the battle. They push Kuvira back toward her forces wherein Kuvira orders her army an attack.
Hitler possessed a great pact of soft power in the judgements of his follower just like in Kuvira’s way to gain support and power, to take control and become economically subordinates the target state. However, this soft power they use to in the wrong hands can have horrible consequences, it can, in some cases suggestion morally superior means to certain goals that leads to soft power turning into hard power like what happened to Germany invasion of Poland. Adolf Hitler’s idea to conquer and partition the country of Poland to become economically inferior of Germany that led to a military intervention since Hitler had a strong power grew from his religion and cultural influences to have his followers and Germany’s increasing strength they were able to invade the Poland.
The technique used for invasion or alliance really matters in the field of international relations because these interactions involves the use of hard power as coercive power with the practice of inducements or threats while the soft power is the capacity to persuade or influence other states without external forces. Thus, hard power and soft power by any means can be a distinction of the relations of various states.
In addition, hard power and soft power doesn’t oppose to the international relations theory of realism because hard power and soft power is a form of power of getting desired outcomes which really connects in the concept of realism. Furthermore, Hitler’s ways of gaining wealth or his desires itself as well as Kuvira’s shows the eagerness of a state to survive and to gain power no matter what kind of force or level it will take.
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ReplyDeleteSeason 2 - Episode 5
ReplyDeleteWhen the President responds that they're doing everything in their power to bring the people responsible to justice, Korra states that only people potentially responsible are the Northern tribe members. The president begins to condescend her for being young and losing her perspective, after which Korra angrily asserts that the President is the one who lost perspective.
In real life, we can relate this scene to what has happened to Mindanao, Especially to the Lumads because it is stated that they reverted the tribe (also they stated that the tribe was the one who is attacking.) But on the other side, they knew that the military was in charge of the attack.
Another real life perspective would be Saddam Hussein who is a terrorist in Iraq. He is trying to prove that they have nuclear weapons in their city but the real point is they have no proof even though there is a condemnation happening.
IN THE IR PERSPECTIVE,
It can be realist because it was the best interest of the south to get sympathy and support from the republic city
And also it can be constructivist because even though there is no proof, Korra believed that the Northern tribe was behind the attack.
In addition to what i said in the scene, after that, The president looks to end the meeting by claiming that he
Deletes looking for a diplomatic solution to the conflict, and that his mind is made up on this matter. Korra gets that last word in by saying "My family is going to be wiped out , and it'll be on your head for doing nothing about it.
Cabatu, Ma. Andrea D.
ReplyDeleteIn season 4 episodes 9 in the Legend of Corra the World leaders were discussing their options to deal with Kuvira deposing the rightful Prince of the Earth kingdom, President Raiko proposed that immediate military action be taken to serve as a pre-emptive strike against the impending attack. Councilman Tenshin and the Firelord Izumi demurred at the idea for different reasons: for the air nomads believed it shouldn’t participate in an unprovoked war while the fire nation was weary of being part of another costly war. Being overruled, they settled to only defend the borders of Republic City. Meanwhile the United States faced a similar dilemma heading towards the Iraq War. Proponents of the war claimed that a pre-emptive strike was necessary because Iraq was harboring terrorists and developing weapons of mass destruction. Sen. Lindsey Graham even went so far to say that “if we do not stop this tyrant, the proof that Iraq made WMD’s would be in the form of a mushroom cloud”. This kind of thinking not only presupposes that war is justified but it is a moral right. Emmanuel Kant said that liberal states do not go into wars and with the establishment of the U.N after World War II would do away with war completely and yet the Iraq War still happened. War in International Relations or at least the threat of it, is a complicated albeit frowned upon and sometimes, necessary upon measure to ensure peace in the international arena.
MACABANDO, Ma. Sittie Iwaram M.
ReplyDeleteSeason 4, Episode 3: The Coronation
Kuvira’s aggressive and coercive method of expanding the Earth Kingdom has created different nations to be alarmed of the oppressive effect on the citizens of villages and cities. Due to Kuvira’s growing power, the Earth Kingdom has decided to overthrow Kuvira and replace her with the next heir on the bloodline succession of the Earth Kingdom monarch with Prince Wu. Kuvira agreed to step down in her position and attended the coronation of Prince Wu. Known for innovating and advancing the military capacity of the Earth Kingdom, Kuvira was awarded with the kyoshi medal of freedom, the nation’s highest honor, by Prince Wu. After receiving the medal of freedom, Kuvira in her speech revealed her disapproval on giving up her throne for she believes that the monarchial succession is ineffective to promote the unification of the Earth Kingdom. As a solution, Kuvira firmly believes that a nation progresses through technological advancement and innovation. In order to secure his status as the promoter of technological advancements in the Kingdom through the creation of magnetic trains and satomobiles, Kuvira transformed the Earth Kingdom into an Earth Empire in order to preserve the tenure of her regime that shocked the citizens of the Earth Kingdom.
The illusion fraught by giving merit from another actor as a determinant of truce can be evident before the start of the World War II. Japan awarded the people of United States with medals that signify cooperation and maintenance of harmonious and diplomatic relations between the two states. However, after the medal giving ceremony, Japan surprised the United States of America with an attack by bombing the Pearl Harbor. Japan has eliminated the suspicion of the United States of America of a perceived attack due to the diplomatic gesture that Japan has given to US. Like the diplomatic gesture of Japan, Kuvira has concealed her motive of preservation of power by superficially agreeing to step down in her position and expansion and establishment of her empire. On the other hand, Japan created an illusion by doing a front act of promoting diplomacy on both states for the success of Japan’s motive of attacking the United States of America’s vulnerability.
The Realist perspective in International Relations can be applied on the coronation of Prince Wu and speech of Kuvira. In this perspective, actors in the international arena are utilizing power in order to pursue their goals and motives. Kuvira has successfully established her political power by control through influence in accordance with Morgenthau’s definition of political power. Kuvira has created a ruler and constitute relationship on the citizens of the people by convincing them that her motives are solely directed on the common good of people such as uplifting their living conditions on the creation of innovations for the Earth Kingdom’s technological advancement. However, Kuvira also utilized the use of force and coercion through the use of threat, fear, and manipulation in order to unify the people of the Earth Kingdom. Kuvira’s political actions are all aimed for the manifestation and success of her motive of expansion of her empire and preservation of power.
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ReplyDeleteGONZALES, Jaezon Krecia
ReplyDeleteA.
Chapter 4 - Episode 3 – The Coronation
This is the time of Wu’s coronation in the New Republic. Kuvira refuses to give power to Wu. She then declared that she will be the leader of the new Earth empire. This created a clear space between Kuvira and the other leaders namely Suyin, Bolin, and Mako. They have the task to protect Wu from the supporters of Kuvira.
B.Real life situation
According to Steven A. Cook on his article last September 18,2017 entitled “Is Iran the new North Korea? Not even close”, he mobed into the detail that when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu go to New York this week to attend the UN General Assembly, Katz advised his boss to press President Donald Trump to avoid the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as “the Iran nuclear deal.” According to the source, Katz used the North Korea crisis to say that the JCPOA is defective and in the process declared that “Iran is the new North Korea.” That Israel’s leaders are counseling the Trump administration to change or bust the Iran deal is hardly news. They spent the better part of President Barack Obama’s second term in office lobbying against the diplomacy that led to the deal and then working to undermine the JCPOA after it became a fact of life.
C.
The scene and the real lifr situation match in the situation that Iran is like Kuvira. They both declare to have dominance over some states. Wu can be seen as President Donald Trump. They are both protected by the other states. The prine minister of israel could be the other leaders namely Suyin, Bolin, and Mako. They are both distant to the opposing power because they feat that there could be another scenario just like the history of Korea.
D.
The IR concept that I can see here is Liberalism. Kuvira’s claiming of the position, just like Iraq, shows dominance in a domestic territory and employing their own interest. They used black boxing in a point that they tend to show interest in the system through givinh a hint that they habe a new form of gobernment. Another concept that I can see in here is the Game Theory. Since Israel is a small country compared to Iraq, it tends to play the game as if it tries to gain the more powerful state to oppose the threatening one. They are trying to convice Trump to avoid this talk so that there will be no dominance of Iraq that will happen.
RALLA, Peter Joart A.
ReplyDeleteBook 2: PEACEKEEPERS (Episode 5)
"I am very concerned with what's happening down there but i don't think it's the republics place to interfere with internal water tribe matters" - President Raiko
Institutionalism and Isolationism of President Raiko to the Water Tribe Civil war
Background
The Nothern water tribe invades the southern water tribe and triggers a civil war between the two factions. The South is severely undermanned and outmatched by the superior forces of the northern water tribe and will be overwhelmed if they would not be able to find allies to back them. To garner the support of the United Republic avatar Korra ventures to seek military aid and intervention for her beleaguered southern tribe she meets with President Raiko.
THE SCENE:
President Raiko receives Korra but instead of immediately confronting and discuss with her the important matters of the pressing civil war he poses to take a picture of her first, smiling and trying to look good. after which he asks what can he do to help the avatar. Korra immediately requests that the United forces be sent to the civil war but President Raiko replies that he cannot intervene within a matter of anothe state. Korra insists also that Unilaq came into power through illegitimate of lying his way into the throne while suppported by Varrick they already are at war since an "alleged" water tribe bomb attack took place at the southern water tribe cultural center the night before. he tries to appease Korra by saying justice will be served and the culprits will be apprehended. Korra is angered by the feebleness of the President to side with the southern tribe. Pres. Raiko reiterates that he cannot commit troops but is willing to make both water tribes to settle the matter diplomatically. Korra retorts "my family is going to be wiped out and their blood will be at your hands." to which the President is visibly disturbed.
Perspective and Concept: Institutional chains and the Glass Box
Raiko can be cited as an institutionalist by the fact that he is willing to follow the established norms and procedures. He is not willing to intervene in another country's internal affairs because under the principle of all states are equal he has to respect the sovereignty of the Water tribe, second we see that instead of offering hard power he aims to solve the war through diplomatic means. the concepts seen here also is Isolationism and Appeasement. In order to preserve the peace he is not willing to intervene unjustified aggression especially against smaller and weaker tribes. Isolationism because it is not their fight and Raiko is willing to distance himself from interfering.'
Real life account:
Nazi Germany by the 1930's was expanding itself to have "lebenstraum" annexing czechoslovakia and the low countries. each time a country would be annexed President Neville Chamberlain would standby and watch for to "achieve the peace of our times" he remained neutral and kept on having diplomatic talks with Hitler that it was going to be the last time. but because he tried to distance himself away from enforcing international law and just abide by it. it e mboldened Hitler evermore to invade other countries eventually Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain resigned for his failure to keep Nazi Germany in check
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ReplyDeleteGarcia, Gabriel Thomas
ReplyDeleteIn season 4 episode 1 titled After all this Years there was a scene where Kuvira just repelled a bandit attack on a town and after the encounter met with the governor of a region of the now splintered Earth Kingdom to discuss its reintegration back to the Earth Kingdom. The governor disagreed vehemently stating that if they agreed to Kuvira’s terms, they’d be left with nothing. Though it wasn’t stated explicitly, it was suggested by the governor that their region is where the most valuable and important minerals are. This scene can be juxtaposed to what the United States was doing after its invasion of Iraq and War with Afghanistan where in the United States would facilitate in what is known in foreign policy circles as nation building. Nation building is an idea pushed by neoconservatives that would promote American values and interests abroad while countries like Iraq and Afghanistan was rebuilding after the wars. They would be subject to aid, protection and priority to the America while also agreeing to concessions, this is why some critics say that the war with Iraq is actually a war for Iraq’s oil and Afghanistan’s minerals and natural gas. That is why the concern of the U.S and Kuvira is not humanitarian but political and economic. It was a heavy handed display of soft power on their part because they did not threaten them militarily, they threatened to abandon them.
MARTINEZ, RALPH DOMINIC V.
ReplyDeleteSEASON 2 EPISODE 5: The Peacekeepers
Korra’s relation to the Southern Water tribe and her obligation as the Avatar.
With the civil war that is happening within the Water Tribes. When the southern water tribe was seeking help from the United Forces. An explosion occurred in the Water Tribe Cultural Center. More so, Korra and Mako have different perspectives in regards who the culprit was. For Korra believes that the Northern water tribe is responsible with regards to the evidences that are pointing towards them as the culprit. While, Mako being a firsthand witness on the bombing scene does not believe that the Northern tribe is the one responsible for the atrocity.
In my perspective, this scene can be attributed to some implications such as the act of bombing be an assumption of raising terror on the land itself or a sign of raising warfare on another state. The actions which are done by another state contrary to what is seen to be rightful of the whole system can be a basis to analyzing the said events and circumstances. First of which we can compare the situation to the historical means such as the Korean war. Wherein the North and South Korea had a civil war in relation to the initiation of North Korea to raise a war.
Korra being the avatar who of which has the power and ability to the so has the responsibility to maintain the peace and order of the whole United Republic of Nations. Similarly, Korra being used as a state as an actor rather than an individual, be the United States of America regarding the system which we have. The diplomatic relation of U.S to the South Korea which can be compared with the relations of Korra and the Southern water tribe, regarding the bias being committed by the strong state/ individual which is Korra/United States regarding its perspective. Although, Korra being the Avatar or the one who possess power amongst others should’ve remained neutral for it may make the situation aggravated rather than making peace within them. It seems obvious that objective to be neutral as “peacekeepers” is undermined by the personal relations of each as seen in both that could result to interventions.
Furthermore, the United forces be the United Nations Security Council being asked for assistance of forces to counter the troops of the North Korea. However, there is a contrast wherein in the Korean war they were given forces to aid in the war, while in the scene they were not given the same. In the end, the scene and the actual reality be connected with International relations for it can be attributed to the relations of the state to one another and how the one who has power would act and use its power according to its relations with such states.
Santos, Francis Gabriel O.
ReplyDeleteSeason 4, Episode 12: "Kuvira's Gambit"
I. Kuvira, with her state-of-the-art, and highly advanced metal robot invades the Republic City. When they reached the Republic City, Kuvira's Colossus destroyed weapons standing by the river. After which, she threatened to kill the people at the front line of The Republic's defense. She gave the President a few seconds to decide whether to surrender or not. The President, knowing that plenty of lives will be wasted, opted not to engage with Kuvira; instead, he decided to just surrender and utter the words: "The Republic City is yours."
II.
During World War II, when Germany is at its apex of military prowess and power, its neighboring countries are growing huge fear to its capabilities. As Germany advances to conquer the entire European continent, it achieves victory with difficulties and sometimes, no difficulties at all. Case in point will be Denmark. Denmark did not engaged in a war with Germany primarily because they can't stand a fight with a military superpower. Hence, the government of Denmark decided not to engage and fight, but rather, surrender to Germany just after 3 hours.
III.
The Republic City, although it has some capabilities, cannot withstand the military prowess of Kuriva's Colossus. Perhaps, it is because of the advancement of technology that caused this disparity between the two. The same holds true with the Germany and Denmark example. Denmark did not engaged in a battle, but instead thought of what will be the best option without any blood flowing through the country. It is known that Germany was a superpower, because of its military advancements which is not matched by that of Denmark. Hence, it can be said that the surrender of the Republic City to the Earth Empire is akin to the surrender of Denmark to Germany.
IV.
In following a realist perspective in International Relations, one can infer that the abovementioned examples are struggles of survival. It is about how can a state survive when it is faced with such conflict. In realism, it is stated that the primary objective of the state in the international system is to preserve itself and survive in an anarchic international system. In this case, the Republic City and Denmark both chose to surrender if that means their people, the foundation of the State, will be preserved and will survive. Although, there may be repercussions in such decisions, it still is a good decision for them because they put into account the lives that can be wasted because of a person succumbing into power.
Villafranca, Juan Martin R.
ReplyDeleteSeason 2: Episode 7 (The beginnings part 1)
Korra is being healed by the firebenders in water that contains healing powers. When she goes into a deep sleep, she meets the first avatars, like Aang. The story comes to a flashback of an individual named Wan. The story progresses when Wan is stealing food from the local tyrants. He soon realizes he wants to go and catch food in the jungle where spirits live. Given the element of fire by the lion turtle, he breaches the stronghold and later is incapable of hurting his friend when he was able to do so. Then, he was banished from the city but asked the lion turtlr to keep the element of fire to protect himself from the spirits he will face.
In addition, the historical event that connects to the tyrants possible notion of being overthrown was during the political revolution in ancient Rome in 509 B.C.The son of th king, Sextus Tarquinis raped a woman. This woman then admitted to the roman noblemen of the crime against her. She committed suicide wen she told them about it because it was during that time when kings had the power to do anyting, which she feared that her life was in danger so she committed suicide. Anyways, with the crim committed, Lucius Brutud launched a campaign to remove the king and his family from power and establish a republic in Rome. The king was overthrown from the throne.
DeleteIn a realist perspective, survival is key. Wan did everything he can to find food for his friends and even sacrificed his status and was evenually exiled in the trecherous jungle. His concpet of survival, using as the excuse of being scared to figt the spirits, he used the power to try and overpower the tyrants' stronghold. It was unsuccessful but it was still effective and was worth the risk given his courage.
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ReplyDeleteBAUTISTA, JIREH ANNE MARIE V.
ReplyDeleteS04E06: “The Battle of Zaofu”
As a continuation to the preceding episode, during the time when Kuvira was planning to lead and control the new Earth Kingdom, Suyin Beifong, the leader and founder of Zaofu, rejected the proposal of letting her city join the new kingdom such that she created this city with her husband out of nothing and pursued hard for this city to be built because she wanted a family. Suyin and her two twin sons, Wei and Wing, went to Kuvira’s military base in attempts to abduct her but as a result, they were the one who was captured. When Suyin’s family alongside Korra learned about this incident, they immediately went to rescue Suyin and her two sons. However, Kuvira, with her battalion, stated a condition that in order to grant the release of the captives, Suyin must first bow to her in acknowledgement that Kuvira will be the on to rule Zaofu. As an application in real life, it may be seen in the ground of having the same means with the captivity of the crusader King Richard I the Lionheart by Leopold V, Duke of Austria. However, this action was against the public law; consequently, Duke Leopold was excommunicated by Pope Celestine III. Afterwards, King Richard was sent to the Holy Roman Emperor Henry VI to imprison him too. His condition was, he needed money for ransom in order produce an army to subdue southern Italy. That’s why he kept Richard much more longer until money was being given to him. With regard to having concepts relating to International relations, it can be seen that both parties who captured the other was in fact driven by their self-interests as stated in the theory of Liberalism for the main reason that it is mainly about the interests of the individuals that matter in the international arena.
Soriano, Ericka D.
ReplyDeleteSeason 4, Episode 1 “After All These Years”
I. Scene Description
Bandits have attacked the Earth Kingdom, which has caused chaos and hunger to the people. Air benders like Opal and Kai arrived to help the Earth Kingdom. However, the governor was shocked that there were only two young air benders will help them defeat the bandits. Opal and Kai assured him that they would do everything to help them. Then, Kuvira and others arrived to convince the governor to pledge his loyalty to Kuvira and in exchange, Kuvira will provide troops to protect their village. The governor declined for he knew the hidden agenda of Kuvira, and that is to rule over the Earth Kingdom. However, the governor had no choice because Kai and Opal were not successful in providing their food. Thus, he unwillingly pledged and surrendered to Kuvira.
II. Real Life Scene
In the Central African Republic, an Army Commander named Jean-Bedel Bokassa secured the people that he would help the country from the problems such as bankruptcy and from the threat of a nationwide strike. However, when he became president, he has turned the Central African Republic into a Central African Empire, declaring himself as the Emperor of the Empire for life.
III. Relation of the Scene in Real Life
Just like Kuvira, Bokassa started as an army commander who first wanted to help the people and the country. Kuvira wanted to unite earth kingdom and defeat the bandits while Bokassa wanted to help CAR from bankruptcy and prevent the nationwide strike. However, there are underlying reasons why they did such things. Thus, these reasons were their personal interests, and that is to rule over their country/kingdom.
IV. IR Concept
The International Relations Concept of the scene in the Legend of Korra and in the situation in Central African Republic is the concept of Realism. In realism, the important thing is the survival and the achievement of personal interest. Kuvira and Bokassa depicted how they are willing to do anything to achieve their own interest despite the circumstances. Thus, this shows how a realist perspective can affect not only one’s decisions but can also affect an entire country/kingdom.
Del Rosario, Job Louis Andrei P
ReplyDeleteSeason 4, Episode 11
Kuvira’s Gambit
This episode talks about on how Wu and Mako support the evacuation of Republic city. On the other hand, Asami and Varrick prepared some machineries that will be useful for their defense. Kuvira’s team attacked unexpectedly and it caught them offguard. This made the4 evacuation of the Republic city more difficult since the defense of the Republic is severely damaged due to the unexpected attack. The part can be compared to WWII event between Japan and USA. The development of the bomb started after the surrender of Nazi Germans. It is essential to take note of Truman asking his advisers on whether to use the atomic bomb developed on Japan. This. The committee responded to bomb it. This can be viewed on constructivist perspective since they decided based on their own construction regarding the capacities of Japan as a military power. They believed that the Japanese would fight to the last man so resorting to dropping the bomb in an area which is not that populous would be essential. The USA dropped the Little Boy which is from Enola Gay and dropped on Hiroshima. Then thre days later the Fat Boy which is dropped on Nagasaki. It contains realist perspective because realists contend that there is an unpredictability on what the other state thinks and no state knmows what it intends to do precisely. Just like the concept of the unpredictability of the attack is showed like Kuvira’s attack on the Republic and dropping of bomb of USA in Hiroshima and Nagasaki that caught them offguard
Gatdula, Bianca Eyrine V.
ReplyDeleteIn the episode “In Harm’s Way” the Red Lotus was first introduced. The Red Lotus is a global militant anarchist organization, founded by Xai Bau as a splinter faction of the Order of the White Lotus after the Hundred Year War. The Red Lotus' agenda is to have the humans and spirits coexist again and usher in a new world order by dismantling the established nations and their leaders. Since the beginning of its insurrection, the Red Lotus is declared a terrorist group by the United Republic of Nations and considered to be the greatest threat to world peace and balance.
In real life, the existence of terrorist groups like the Al-Qaeda organization is to destroy the peace and balance in the world. Al-Qaeda is an international terrorist network founded by Osama bin Laden, it retains its intent, though perhaps not the robust capability, to plan and conduct terrorist attacks against the West, including the U.S. homeland. Core al-Qaida almost certainly will also try to inspire regional nodes and allies, as well as unaffiliated but like-minded extremists, to engage in terrorism against the West.
Zaheer and Osama bin Laden are leaders who shared the same ideology and led their organizations into achieving their goals. Both leaders had been stopped by the occurring government for they are a threat to the peace and balance of the world. Zaheer had been incarcerated for thirteen years following a failed attempt to kidnap Avatar Korra; he managed to escape his imprisonment two weeks and subsequently liberated his three associates. They managed to send the Earth Kingdom into chaos, but failed to murder Korra, resulting in the incarceration of Zaheer and the deaths of his three comrades. While, the killing of al-Qaida leaders Osama bin Laden, Atiyah Abel al Rahman, and lIyas Kashmiri in 2011; reduced the Pakistan-based core al-Qaida's cohesion and capabilities, including its ability to mount sophisticated, complex attacks in the West similar to the 2006 Transatlantic Airliner plot.
The International Relations phenomenon present in these Legend of Korra scenes and real life situations presented liberal internationalism- quest for order and abolition of political authority.
ESCARCHA, Gil Harvey S.
ReplyDeleteSeason 02, Episode 04: The Civil Wars Part II
I. Scene Description
In Episode 4 of Season 2, Korra knew the true colours of her uncle and mentor Unalaq as a tribal chief who is greedy of power. This was confirmed by the judge who presided the trial of her parents as Korra forced the judge to tell the truth. She finally knew that Unalaq was the man behind the banishment of her father Tonrac since the old days and also that Unalaq also presided the trial – the judge was just utilized by Unalaq to fool Korra that the trial was fair. This said, everything went the other way around for the Avatar.
Since the very first meeting of Korra and her uncle prior to the winter solstice, Unalaq already planned his hideous desires to obtain power by manipulating Korra through accepting him as her new mentor. In this episode, Korra finally decided to go against Unalaq and help the Southern water tribe redeem their independence, and one way of achieving it is by saving her father from the hands of the Northern tribes. This led to further conflicts between Tonrac and Unalaq – the Southern and the Northern water tribes.
All these transpired because of the chief tribal’s greedy of power and prestige.
II. Real Life Scene
Recently, China was viewed by many as a country greedy of power. Power here is manifested by its desire to increase territory, hence disregarding the international law. One strong support for this claim is the South China Sea dispute where China bypassed the international law on territorial waters of 200 nautical miles exclusive economic zone, and hereby adhered to its nine dash line principle. Many Chinese vessels were spotted on the Scarborough shoal, the disputed territory rich in natural resources, which made the conflict even worse. This dispute transpired series of conflicts between Philippines and other countries, where following the international law, the disputed territory would have been under the Philippine territory.
III. Relation of the Scene in Real Life
In a sense, the relation of the scene in Season 2 Episode 4 in the South China Sea dispute roots down to the desire to increase and amplify power done in provocative measures. Unalaq, like China, sought to gain power by disregarding the others’ statements and relying solely on his self-interest which is to obtain power. Power in the situation of the South China Sea dispute is seen by the country’s desire to increase its territory and to exploit and maximize the natural resources that are abundant in the shoal.
Since the desire to obtain power is manifested on both situations, dramatic conflicts arose. In Season 2 Episode 4, the Southern water tribes, due to Unalaq’s interest of gaining power by removing their independence, resorted to fight against the northerners as prompted by Avatar Korra. In the South China Sea dispute, on the other hand, conflicts also did arise. The other countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia are interested in the resources the disputed territory entails. But with the aggression of China by disregarding the international law and sending its vessels on the disputed territory, there existed conflict which required much attention from the UNCLOS.
IV. IR Concept
The Concept of the International Relations present in both situations is Realism where power is greatly manifested and adhered upon. The actors are primarily driven to acquire power to meet its self-interest. Unalaq and China possessed an offensive kind of realism where they both sought to maximize power relative to others. It is in this regard that self-interest enters because of their ignorance to the rights of the other party – the Southern Tribe in the Legend of Korra and the other countries in the real life scene.
Jeffrey Isaiaj G. Labudahon
ReplyDeleteBook 3: Change Episode 6: Old Wounds
I. Film Description
From the title of the book itself we can already see that the stories will focus on change; and we do know that it is really hard for most to accept and appreciate change. Old wounds was the title of the episode which revolves mainly on the daughters of Toph (one of the closest friends of Aang the avatar) and what had happened previously with them. What happened between Lin and Suyin before was that Lin being an officer done her duties to arrest the criminals and to her shock what she saw as the criminal was her sibling Suyin. Toph being the head of police in her village made decisions not done ordinarily to quote Toph “ I am the Chief of Police I can’t have a daughter in Jail” she tore the police records and just made Suyin go out of the city to her grandparents even if she did something wrong. Also in this episode we can see that Suyin’s daughter (Opal) was actually hesitant going to train in the air temple because she was afraid of her family. Korra in this episode was also taught by Suyin metal bending since she didn’t know how to metal bend yet that time.
II. Real Life Scene Facts
DeleteThe Scenes shows the idea of “Padrino System” that we have in the Philippines wherein there are some who have the favour from those who have close and strong ties with those who are in position. Padrino System is a well-known phenomenon in the Philippines in which those who are in position or who has a high position in the government or government offices they give advantages or leverages to those whom they know or whom they are related to. Padrino System especially in the Philippines focuses more on the Family ties and bonds they have with their friends. In the sense that Padrino system is the complete opposite of Meritocracy or giving positions to those who really earn and deserve it. Padrino system is a corrupt and biased way in the Philippines.
III. Match
In the episode of the Legend of Korra season 3 book of Change episode 6 Old wounds we can see a portion of that clip wherein Toph’s Daughter was in a tight situation of being brought to jail for doing something bad (robbery and escape from the police) but because there mother was the chief of police she was laid off and was able to escape from that situation. And to quote Toph “ I am the Chief of Police I can’t have a daughter in Jail” she just tore the police records and just made Suyin go out of the city to her grandparents even if she did something wrong. The biased system shows that those who are in power can get away with things and those who are powerless are just left and needs to cope up with the system.
IV. IR Phenomenon
DeleteThere are many IR phenomena’s that we can apply in this episode alone but the author would just rather focus on two such as Liberalism and Realism. In the episodes there are certain parts wherein the idea of having power is to be of use to you just like in the scene wherein Suyin was laid off and was able to escape prison because of the power of her mother being the chief of police was useful in that situation. The idea of Realism is for you to survive the tough world out there and the means of you having a certain power you must be able to maximize and use it to your advantage as what had Toph done in that situation. Also the idea of Liberalism it was seen in the later parts that Suyin and Lin had forgiven one another since they both know that it will not be beneficial for them to hate one another they believe that will be of betterment for them. They both had the freedom to choose the action that they had to partake. Also just like in the near end scene where in Opal wanted to go to the air temple to have a better understanding of air bending and also for her to have a better skill of being an air bender is a scene wherein we can see the idea of being liberal and free to do what one pleases to do. Also Liberalism showcases the unique behaviour of individuals just like Korra wanting to learn metal bending and the other character such as the bad guys do whatever they please to do.
Apostol, Yvonne Xyza G.
ReplyDeleteS02E03-05
During the Water Tribe’s glacier spirits festival – a festival wherein the tribes get together, and tribal elders would commune to the spirits to balance their worlds, Unalaq the chief, mentioned that the Southerners is spiritually unbalanced and have abandoned all connections with the spirits. With this, he then aims to help the South to reconnect with the spirits and unify the water tribes once again with the help Avatar who is the bridge of the material world and the spirits by teaching her the ways of how it is to be done. When Korra successfully opened the spirit portal at the South Pole, the North troops went to South. Unalaq said that opening the spirit portal was only the first step in returning balance between the spirits and man. The Northern troops, made the Southerners feel invaded because they were troubled of the things that the Northern troops does such as the harbor lockdown. Varrick then goes on telling that what Unalaq is really planning is to control the South and if Unalaq doesn’t pull out his forces, then the South has no choice but to fight for their freedom. Korra later on talks to Unalaq and said that if something doesn’t change about the Northern troops being in the south, there could be a civil war. Korra’s mother talked to her and mentioned that Varrick is planning a rebellion against Unalaq and that he invited Korra’s father, Tonraq to join. Shocked, Korra immediately went to Unalaq and saw that Unalaq was being taken by Southerners. Korra stopped this and after that, Unalaq ordered his troops to find Varrick to be put in prison along with the “traitors”. However, Korra told him that he can’t do it because it will only make the South angrier and that he should at least let them stand trial. Unalaq also arrested Korra’s parents and accused them of conspiring to assassinate him. Varrick was sure that the trial was rigged by Unalaq and indeed he was right when Judge Hotah told Korra that Unalaq told him what to say during the trial. Moreover, Judge Hotah admitted to Korra about Unalaq’s set up on getting Tonraq banished from the North before. Because of this Korra then wanted to free her father out of jail and when she and her friends came to rescue her father, Unalaq already sent Korra’s father back to North on a ship. Korra also realized the fact that Unalaq was only manipulating her in order to obtain power. When Tonraq learned about the truth, he decided to put Unalaq in “his place”. He then tells Korra to get the United Forces to take their side because the South wasn’t well equipped for war. When Korra arrived at the Republic City, a bombing incident happened during a peaceful protest of the Southerners against Unalaq causing terror in the said event. This can be related on what happened to Korea after the World War II. The Soviets took over the northern part of Korea and the American took over the southern part later on. Both were heavily influenced by the superpowers holding them. The two peninsulas were in great tension because the presidents Kim Il-Sung and Syngman Rhee both claimed that the whole peninsula is theirs. The North also invaded South Korea in 1950 with the favor of them having more forces due to donations unlike that of South Korea. The United Nations then made a decision to send troops to help the South. The bombing incident can also be related to what has happened in the world today. Bombing attacks were frequently reported such as those that happened in in New York, Paris, in Brussels, and many others in order to send a message and instill fear on the people.
Realism and institutionalism can both be seen in these scenarios. Unalaq aimed to gain more power by manipulating Korra to go along with his plans. He also used force in order to get what he wants. Korra on the other hand, wanted the North and South to be united and believed that both can be united since it is also her duty as the avatar. In addition, other nations would take sides if the water tribes were at war.