12 Questions
What is the primary goal of humans according to the realist view?
To achieve power and security
How do realists view international relations?
As a conflictual arena of rivalry and war
What is the primary role of the state according to realism?
To protect and guarantee the security of its citizens
What is the ultimate arbiter in judging foreign policy according to realism?
National interest
What is the driving force behind a state's actions according to realism?
The pursuit of its own national interests
What is the realist view on the role of power in international relations?
Power is a key factor in achieving national security
What is a key assumption of the international system according to realists?
That the balance of power can provide order
According to Thucydides, what is a key feature of international relations?
That justice is of a special kind, where states are unequal
What is the main responsibility of rulers according to Machiavelli?
To seek the advantages and defend the interests of their state
Why do classical realists draw a firm distinction between political ethics and private morality?
Because they believe that political responsibility is different from personal morality
What is the core argument of Thomas Hobbes' view of human nature?
That humans are driven by their desire for power and security
What is the primary goal of state leaders according to classical realists?
To ensure national liberty, independence, and survival
Study Notes
Classical Realism
- The international system is characterized by anarchy, and realists believe that the balance of power is a way to limit power and maintain order.
- Realists argue that states must prepare for war to secure peace.
Views on Power
- Thucydides: States must adapt to the reality of unequal power and conduct themselves accordingly to avoid destruction.
- Machiavelli: The primary responsibility of rulers is to seek advantages and defend the interests of their state and its survival.
- Thomas Hobbes: The state of nature is a hypothetical condition where men and women live without a sovereign state, and this concept helps us understand political life.
Public Morality (Politic Ethics) vs. Private Morality
- Thucydides: Justice in international relations is not about equal treatment for all, as states are unequal in power and capabilities.
- Machiavelli: A firm distinction between political ethics and private morality is necessary, as leaders may need to act against private morality to ensure national liberty, independence, and survival.
- Thomas Hobbes: The state of nature and security dilemma are central to understanding human nature and the international system.
Core Arguments of Classical Realists
- Thucydides: Emphasizes the unequal distribution of power in the international system, where the strong use their power to dominate and the weak accept their circumstances.
- Machiavelli: Advocates for the use of power and deception in foreign policy to achieve national interests, and believes that political responsibility is more important than private morality.
- Thomas Hobbes: Focuses on the state of nature and security dilemma, arguing that humans are driven by self-interest and desire, and that the state plays a crucial role in guaranteeing citizen security.
Basic Assumptions of Realism
- A pessimistic view of human nature: humans are driven by self-interest and the desire for power.
- International relations are conflictual and solved by force.
- High values of national security and survival: the state prioritizes citizen security and ensures the survival of the state and its people.
- The international interest is the final arbiter in judging foreign policy.
Review the basic assumptions of realism, including the view of human nature, national interests, and the international system. Test your understanding of realism's core principles and concepts.
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