Constructivism is a way of looking at international relations that focuses on understanding the way in which people think and act in the world. It looks at how people create meaning and interpret their environment, and how that affects the way countries deal with each other. Instead of looking only at facts and history, constructivism looks at how beliefs and ideas shape international relationships. For example, two countries that might have a long history of disagreeing don't necessarily have to continue to do so - they could use shared ideas and beliefs to work towards a better relationship. Constructivism can help us understand how these shared beliefs and ideas can help bring people together.