Theoretical frameworks are important for understanding how countries make decisions about foreign policy. Here’s a simple look at the main theories and how they affect choices made by nations:

1. Realism: This idea is all about power and what is best for the nation. For example, if a country feels threatened, like when Russia builds up its military, it might spend more on its own military to feel safer.

2. Liberalism: This viewpoint focuses on cooperation and teamwork between countries. It encourages nations to make trade agreements or form alliances, like the ones in the European Union. This shows how countries benefit by depending on each other.

3. Constructivism: This framework highlights the importance of ideas and how countries see themselves. For example, a country might change its foreign policy to follow global norms or help with humanitarian issues, like trying to fight climate change.

In short, these different theories help us understand how countries interact with each other and assist leaders in making their decisions.