IR, chapter 3

Realism in international relations is best understood as a structured approach to research and analysis.

Classical realists place significant emphasis on the ethical and moral aspects of political behavior.

Contemporary realists often overlook the importance of norms, societal values and ethics in shaping state behavior.

Recent theoretical debate among realist IR scholars has largely centered on the enduring relevance and interpretation of the balance of power concept in the contemporary international system.

Machiavelli believed state leaders must prioritize the security and survival of their state above traditional Christian ethics.

Hobbes argued that the fear of death and the perpetual state of war in the absence of government led individuals to create a sovereign state for protection.

Machiavellian realism recognizes and acknowledges the central role and often amoral nature of power in international relations.

Hobbes posited that fear is the primary driving force behind political collaboration and the establishment of a social order.

Civic virtue in Machiavellian realism refers to the responsibilities and duties of rulers to safeguard their country and serve the interests of their citizens.

In a civil condition, people have the opportunity to prosper, thrive, and actively pursue their happiness and fulfillment.

Hobbes argued that intellect alone is insufficient to establish a sovereign state, requiring also fear and the will to cooperate.

The primary goal of foreign policy, according to realist thought, is to advance and protect the interests of the state in the international arena.

The normative core of realism centers on the prioritization of national security and the survival of the state as the most fundamental goals.

Realist theory characterizes the international state system as anarchic, meaning there is no overarching world government to enforce rules.

Realists believe that international relations is primarily characterized by a struggle among great powers for domination, influence, and security.

Realists contend that a balance of power between great powers can serve to limit war and maintain order in the international sphere.

Realist theory posits that its principles remain valid across different times and places due to the unchanging fundamental characteristics of international relations.

Realist thought generally assumes that human nature is inherently self-interested, with individuals primarily concerned with their own well-being and the pursuit of power.

Realism considers the national interest as the ultimate determining factor in foreign policy decision-making.

Realism advocates for advancing and securing a state's own interests as the most important goal of foreign policy.

Realism has a skeptical outlook regarding the possibility of lasting progress and improvement in international politics.

Realist theory asserts that the international state system is anarchic due to the absence of a central world government.

Classical realism prioritizes national security and state survival as core political values.

Largely American in origin and has been the most prominent International Relations (IR) theory in the US.

International relations as competition and conflict between ancient Greek city-states and non-Greek neighbors saw international relations as competition.

Relations between states has little bearing on the relations between states.

Wars result of competition between Athens and Sparta over trade and naval supremacy.

Essential in international relations and means think ahead.

Survival and prosperity of states is primarily about justice in international relations.

The structure of the international system affects relations between states