Realism

Definition

Realism is a school of thought in international relations that emphasizes the competitive and conflictual side of international politics. It posits that states are the primary actors in an anarchic world, where power and national interests drive behavior, leading to a focus on military strength and the pursuit of security. Realism highlights that moral considerations often take a backseat to pragmatic decision-making.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Realism argues that states act in their own self-interest, driven primarily by the need for security and power.
2. The theory suggests that international conflicts arise from competition over limited resources, leading to wars and power struggles.
3. Realists believe that ethical norms are secondary to national interests, meaning states may engage in morally questionable actions to maintain power.
4. Key thinkers in realism include Hans Morgenthau and Kenneth Waltz, who contributed foundational ideas about power dynamics and state behavior.
5. Realism has evolved into several sub-theories, including classical realism, neorealism, and offensive/defensive realism, each with different perspectives on state behavior.

Review Questions

• How does realism explain the behavior of states in the international system?
  • Realism explains state behavior as driven by the pursuit of national interests and the need for security within an anarchic international system. States operate in a competitive environment where they must prioritize their own survival and power over ethical considerations. This leads to actions motivated by self-interest, often resulting in conflicts as states vie for resources and influence.
• Discuss how the concept of anarchy influences the realist perspective on international relations.
  • The concept of anarchy is central to realism as it posits that there is no overarching authority to enforce rules among states. In this anarchic system, each state must act independently to ensure its own security and pursue its interests. This lack of order drives states to accumulate power and prepare for potential conflicts, shaping their interactions with one another.
• Evaluate the impact of realism on contemporary foreign policy decisions made by major powers.
  • Realism significantly impacts contemporary foreign policy as major powers often prioritize national interests and security over moral or ideological considerations. This can be seen in actions like military interventions or strategic alliances that emphasize power balance rather than humanitarian concerns. The realist approach leads to a pragmatic understanding of international relations where states navigate complexities based on power dynamics, shaping global politics and responses to crises.

Related terms

anarchy: The concept in international relations that describes the absence of a central authority to enforce rules, resulting in a self-help system where states must ensure their own security.

power politics: The practice of political decision-making that prioritizes the use and acquisition of power as the main means to achieve national goals.

national interest: The goals and objectives that a nation considers important for its survival and well-being, often encompassing security, economic prosperity, and cultural values.