Realism in International Relations

A school of thought in IR that believes power and national interest are the primary drivers of state behavior.

Realism views the international system as anarchic, meaning there is no higher authority above states to enforce rules or settle disputes.

Realism emphasizes that states are the primary actors in IR, and other actors (NGOs, individuals) operate within the framework of state interactions.

Realists believe humankind is inherently selfish and driven by self-interest. This pessimistic view shapes their understanding of state behavior.

A realist concept that states must rely on themselves for their security and survival. They cannot depend solely on alliances or international institutions.

Realism emphasizes the importance of national security and the survival of the state as the main objectives of foreign policy.

Realism suggests a balance of power among states is necessary to prevent any one state from achieving dominance and threatening others.

Realism argues that conflict is inevitable in IR due to the nature of the system and human nature. War is the ultimate means of resolving disputes.

A central concept in realism where states are rational actors that assess their interests and make decisions based on maximizing their own advantage.

A state's actions are driven by a fundamental desire for survival in a world without a global government.

The idea that international politics is a struggle for power where states are always vying for dominance.

Morgenthau argued that politics is distinct from morality, meaning it's about achieving what's best for the state, even if it's not ethically ideal.

The absence of a supreme authority to enforce rules and maintain order between states.

States are primarily concerned with their own security and survival, leading them to compete for power and influence.

A theory that explains international relations based on the structure of the international system, particularly the absence of a central authority.

Structural Realism argues that state behavior can be explained by the structure of the international system, not just individual state characteristics.

Waltz argued that the international system has remained largely unchanged despite differences in state capabilities, suggesting a system-driven approach to understanding international relations.

States are unequal in power, survival demands adaptation to this imbalance. Foreign policy requires foresight, prudence, caution, and judgment. Illustrates the power dynamic: 'The strong do what they can, the weak accept what they must.'

Power and deception are essential tools for foreign policy. Rulers' primary duty is to protect their states and ensure survival. Leaders must be strong ('lions') and cunning ('foxes') to achieve success.

The natural state is one of constant conflict, where humans are inherently self-interested and seek power. The sovereign state provides security against both internal and external threats. Cooperation is driven by fear, prioritizing domestic stability and international security.

The state of nature is one of perpetual conflict due to human nature. The state is the primary unit of analysis and its survival is paramount, based on power and security.

Humans are inherently political beings, driven by the pursuit of power. The state is the ultimate space for securing power and achieving stability. The desire for power leads to conflict, with morality being secondary to state interests.

State actors are motivated by maximizing their power in a self-interested manner. International politics is characterized by anarchy, with no overarching authority, leading to a constant struggle for dominance.

The belief that morality and ethics should be prioritized in international relations. This approach emphasizes diplomacy and cooperation between states to promote peace and justice.

A state's overall strength in international politics, measured by factors like population, territory, economy, military power, and political stability.

A situation in which states, feeling insecure, increase their military capabilities to protect themselves, but this ultimately makes other states feel threatened, leading to a cycle of growing tensions and potentially conflict.

Self-reliance and responsibility for one's own security in an anarchic system where states cannot rely on any higher authority for protection.

States aim to maximize their power and influence to ensure their survival and security in a system without a higher authority.

States seek enough power to ensure their survival, but excessive power is counterproductive as it provokes alliances against the powerful state.

The idea that states are rational actors, meaning they make decisions based on a logical assessment of their interests and the consequences of their actions.

The idea that states are the most important actors in international relations, and they have sovereign authority within their territories.

The idea that the primary goal of states is survival, and all other interests are secondary.

The idea that states must rely on themselves for security, as there is no world government to protect them.

The idea that states can identify their interests and prioritize them rationally.

The idea that states can act immorally if it serves their survival. The means justify the ends.

The critique that states are not the only important players, and there are other actors, like international organizations and NGOs.