Concept of Representation in Diplomacy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

Concept of Representation in Diplomacy - Essay Example In the past, literature in the field of diplomacy has defined representation in various ways, some of which are even conflicting when it comes to its role in international relations in contemporary and future society. However, the importance of diplomatic representation in diplomacy would depend on the meaning attributed to this concept. As a result, the relevance of diplomatic representation has become the centre of a major debate about the importance of diplomacy in a fast evolving world. It's hard for us to picture what ancient diplomacy was all about. However, the diplomacy in the Greek and Roman civilizations was intermittent and generated no permanent in situations.1 (Hamilton and Langhorne 995: 7) "In order to dispense with diplomacy, that is with the methods used by independent governments to work out their own relations with one another, mankind would either have to let independent governments exist without the diplomatic dialogue, or else dispense with independence and 'sovereign states' altogether. They would not be able to conclude peace settlements or treaties with their neighbours, for such settlements are the essence of diplomacy. Each would have to stand alone against a more powerful and aggressive neighbour. They would not be able to get into touch with one another, to band together or form leagues and alliances for mutual protection."2 (Watson 1991:22) THE EVOLUTION OF REPRESENTATION IN DIPLOMACY In the ancient days, representation was not so strong in diplomacy. Niccolo Machiavelli was a great ruler of his time. He is quite famous for his political theory. However, little is known about his reflections on diplomacy. Machiavelli emerged when diplomacy just began its transformation that saw the creation of resident embassies. (Berridge 2001:7-8) In order for us to assess the role of diplomacy in today's world, some scholars argue that residential bilateral diplomacy is gradually becoming irrelevant. However, other scholars continue to uphold this type of diplomacy. These debates have been initiated by the changes that are occurring in the international system. Some scholars believe that the practice of diplomacy needs to adjust in order to adapt to the new environment, meanwhile others feel that the traditional methods still the answer the question today. (Berridge 2001:136) In the past, debates over globalization and global governance claimed that the role of governments decline over the years. But that hasn't happened. We are now witnessing different trends that prove this argument wrong. There is still much government participation in the ways in which government agencies operate. The structures of contemporary diplomacy now operate in such a way that they do not only go out to articulate the international goals and policies of the state. Today's diplomatic structures also tend to represent components of the increasing network of global governance. The transformations in the structures of diplomacy strongly depict the ways in which governments are responding to the changes in the international system. (Manojlovic and Thorheim 2007:12) Changes in the practice of diplomacy began with the introduction of the principle of self-determination, and then later proceeded into the era of

Action, Goals and Benefits Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Action, Goals and Benefits - Essay Example It is our most valued possession. While pursuing an education, we will certainly run into obstacles along the way. However, by having a clear vision of our goals and a well-developed habit of study we can clear any hurdles that are placed in our path. Though the pace of today's world makes an education seem difficult, it can be made easier by following some simple rules. One of the first things we realize when we begin an education is that there just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day. It's important to recognize that education is the priority. An awareness of my goals can be the best aide in setting a schedule for my activities (Managing Your Time). It may mean giving up a Sunday football game. I may have to suffer with a couple less hours of sleep now and then. Managing my time will require me to make a schedule that will take priority over most of the other events in my life. Sticking to my schedule will be easier if I concentrate on my goals and my reasons for getting an education. I hope to improve my writing skills in this class and become a better communicator. The ability to write successfully will enhance my professional opportunities as well as give me a sense of personal accomplishment. My current lifestyle and schedule is an obstacle that I need to work around. I work 12 hours a day and set aside Sunday for church. At first glance, it seems that I only have Gen 101: Action, Goals and Benefits Saturdays to study. However, I can read during my lunch breaks at work. I can set aside an hour each night dedicated to my studies. Vince Lombardi once said that hard work is the price we pay to achieve our goals (cited in Determination Quotations). I can extend my study period on Saturday by 2 hours and work in an additional 2 hours on Sunday. This will give me an additional 14 hours of study time each week. It may mean some personal sacrifice, but eventually it will become a habit and will be almost unnoticed. By applying myself to my studies and keeping to my schedule I should see considerable progress throughout the course. I expect my writing to become easier and clearer. The library will open my mind to new opportunities and interests. I expect that my schedule and study routine will become a habit that will transfer to my other courses in the future. I plan to continue my education at the University of Phoenix after I finish this course on March 7, 2007. The path to a degree will also bring about increased opportunities and positions in my employment. Aside from benefiting from an increase in salary, it will also give me greater self-esteem. Education is a continual process of self-improvement and that improvement will show in every part of my life. Whether at work, at home, or in a social situation, an education shines through and makes the whole world a little brighter. To sum it all up, my education is important to me and it is a crucial step on my path to self-improvement. This course will give me the tools to write better, read better, Gen 101: Action, Goals and Benefits study better, and develop a greater sense of personal management. Though my schedule may be packed, I can find ways to set aside the time I need to study. By keeping my goals on my mind, it's easy to make education a priority. Small sacrifices now can realize big rewards later. My plan is to focus on this program and continue to study at UOP. It will give me a greater chance for career advancement and offer me better economic opportunities. Education is the one thing you always carry with you and no one can take from you. This course is a step in acquiring that very valuable