The Realist Theory in International Relations

The Realist Theory in International Relations is a set of theories that emphasize several concepts related to international relations, such as the role of the state, national interest, and the balance of power among nations. Realism emerged as a movement in the study of international relations in the mid-20th century, pioneered by British political scientist E.H. Carr. He criticized the concept of idealism and the belief in progress and development through international institutions, such as the League of Nations, marking Carr’s realism as classical realism.

Following classical realism, a new form known as Neorealism emerged in the 1970s. Neorealism differed from classical realism in two main aspects: methodology and analysis. It aimed to reshape realism into a more cohesive scientific and social theory than its classical predecessor. Neorealism considered states as the principal actors in international relations.

Core Concepts of Realist Theory

The core concepts of realist theory include the following:

Balance of Power
The balance of power is one of the guarantees for achieving stability and peace in the international arena. It is concerned with the economic growth of states, as economy is one of the prominent drivers of conflict between nations.

National Interest
The foreign policy of each nation is primarily aimed at achieving national interest, which serves as the main motivator behind any country’s foreign policy decisions.

Power
Power is a determinant of international behavior. It ensures the protection and maintenance of a state’s institutions, especially its military. Morgenthau famously stated, “International relations are, in fact, relationships of power.”

Pioneers of Realist Theory in International Relations

The roots of realism in international relations extend back several centuries. Among the most significant thinkers who contributed to establishing the foundations of realist theory throughout history are:

Thucydides
Thucydides’ name is historically linked to the concept of realist theory, and he is often considered its founder. He chronicled the Peloponnesian War between Sparta and Athens in his work, “History of the Peloponnesian War.”

Niccolò Machiavelli
An Italian philosopher and thinker, Machiavelli sought to study the political structure of society and the causes of wars.

Thomas Hobbes
Hobbes emphasized the inherently selfish nature of humanity. He was a philosopher with specific views on society and the importance of law enforcement.

E.H. Carr
Carr underscored the idea that a state builds its foreign relations upon the principle of national interest.

Hans Morgenthau
After World War II, Morgenthau authored “Politics Among Nations,” a crucial reference in the study of realism in international relations.

Here are some key books and resources on realist theory in international relations:

Major Books on Realism in IR

  • “Politics Among Nations” by Hans Morgenthau[7] – A seminal text that helped establish classical realism as a major IR theory after World War II.
  • “Man, the State and War” by Kenneth Waltz[8] – An influential book that laid the groundwork for neorealism.
  • “Theory of International Politics” by Kenneth Waltz – The defining text of neorealism/structural realism.
  • “The Twenty Years’ Crisis, 1919-1939” by E.H. Carr[8] – A classic critique of idealism that helped establish realism.
  • “The Tragedy of Great Power Politics” by John Mearsheimer – A key text on offensive realism.

Key Features of Realism

Realism in IR theory is characterized by several core assumptions[1][2][3]:

  • States are the primary actors in international politics
  • The international system is anarchic (lacks central authority)
  • States act rationally in their own self-interest
  • Power and security are the main concerns of states
  • Skepticism about ethics/morality in international affairs
  • Focus on balance of power and national interests

Major Variants of Realism

  • Classical realism – Focuses on human nature and power politics (e.g. Morgenthau)[1]
  • Neorealism/structural realism – Emphasizes the anarchic structure of the international system (e.g. Waltz)[2]
  • Offensive realism – States seek to maximize power and hegemony (e.g. Mearsheimer)
  • Defensive realism – States seek security rather than power maximization

Key Critiques and Debates

  • Realism has been criticized for oversimplifying international relations and ignoring non-state actors[1]
  • The inter-paradigm debate between realism, liberalism and constructivism in IR theory[5]
  • Ongoing debates about the relevance of realism in the post-Cold War era[7]

Online Resources

  • Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy entry on Political Realism in IR[2]
  • E-International Relations introduction to Realism[1][6]
  • Britannica overview of Realism in IR[7]

This overview covers some of the major books, concepts, debates and resources related to realist theory in international relations. Let me know if you need any clarification or additional information on this topic.

Citations:
[1] https://www.e-ir.info/2018/02/27/introducing-realism-in-international-relations-theory/
[2] https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/realism-intl-relations/
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Realism_in_international_relations
[4] https://books.google.nl/books/about/Realism_and_International_Relations.html?id=509idQ4icxIC&redir_esc=y
[5] https://cadmus.eui.eu/handle/1814/23718
[6] https://www.e-ir.info/publication/international-relations-theory/
[7] https://www.britannica.com/topic/realism-political-and-social-science
[8] https://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/international-relations-theory

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SAKHRI Mohamed
SAKHRI Mohamed

I hold a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and International Relations in addition to a Master's degree in International Security Studies. Alongside this, I have a passion for web development. During my studies, I acquired a strong understanding of fundamental political concepts and theories in international relations, security studies, and strategic studies.

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