Billiard Ball vs Cobweb Model — International Politics Simplified | UPSC PSIR Optional

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This lecture introduces two influential models used to explain the nature of international politics:
Billiard Ball Model: Rooted in Realism, it views states as hard, impermeable units like billiard balls. States collide in pursuit of power and security, with little regard for internal dynamics. The focus is on sovereignty, conflict, and balance of power.
Cobweb Model: Rooted in Liberalism and Interdependence theories, it sees states as interconnected like strands in a cobweb. Cooperation, institutions, and globalization bind states together, making isolation impossible. The focus is on interdependence, cooperation, and global governance.
You’ll learn:
The contrasting assumptions of realism vs liberalism.
How the billiard ball model explains conflict and sovereignty.
How the cobweb model explains cooperation and interdependence.
Case studies: Cold War (billiard ball), European Union & WTO (cobweb).
UPSC/PSIR exam tips: how to frame answers with definitions, diagrams, examples, and balanced evaluation.
This lecture includes clear diagrams, real‑world examples, and exam‑ready structures to help you master IR models.

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