Discussing the four schools of international relations theory, the role of materialism and idealism, and the influence of domestic politics and international institutions. Examining Germany's role in the potential breakup of the European Union and the impact of international institutions. Analyzing coercion and legitimation stories in maintaining the liberal world order and the challenges faced by the contemporary left. Exploring the intersection of realism and Marxism, the role of oil in international relations, and the balance between simplicity and complexity in social sciences.