According to constructivists, what is a reason why a proposed new norm might fail to gain much acceptance at the global level?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

a) Antipreneurs might cut the budgets of organizations likely to support the norm. This is a plausible reason from a constructivist perspective. Antipreneurs are actors who actively work to undermine or counteract the efforts of norm entrepreneurs—those who advocate for new norms. If antipreneurs are successful in cutting the budgets of organizations that would typically support and promote a new norm, this could significantly hinder the norm's acceptance and diffusion.
b) States rarely change their interests or understanding of right and wrong. Constructivists would argue against this statement as they believe that states' interests and identities are not fixed and can be reshaped by social interaction, persuasion, and the influence of norms. Constructivism posits that norms can redefine what states consider to be their interests or what they perceive as appropriate behavior.
c) States usually violate norms when they can gain an advantage over other states. While realist theories might emphasize the strategic violation of norms for self-interest, constructivists would argue that norms can become internalized to the point where they shape states' identities and interests, leading to compliance even when immediate gains might be available through violation. However, it is acknowledged that states might sometimes choose to violate norms if the norm is not deeply internalized or if there is significant pressure to pursue immediate interests.
d) None of the above. This option would not be correct, as option (a) does provide a reason that aligns with constructivist thought on why a proposed new norm might fail to gain acceptance.
Therefore, the most appropriate answer from the options provided, according to constructivist theory, is:
A) Antipreneurs might cut the budgets of organizations likely to support the norm. This action could impede the establishment and spread of the new norm by reducing the resources available to those who would promote it and incorporate it into the international community's practices and beliefs.

According to Constructivists, What Is a Reason Why a Proposed