Chapter 3

Question 1

What are the 4 basic Realist assumptions?

Answer 1

1. Pessimistic view on human nature
2. IR is conflictual and is solved by force
3. High regard for national security and state survival
4. Doubt that there can be progress in international politics

Question 2

Who are some of the main Classical Realists?

Answer 2

morgantheau, carr, thucydides, machiavelli, Hobess

Question 3

What do realists believe is at the centre of IR?

Answer 3

Acquisition of power and the use of power

Question 4

According to Realists, who are the main actors in IR?

Answer 4

International state system is anarchical so states are the most important actors. IR is relations of states. All other NGO and IGO are far less important.

Question 5

To realists, why is the state important?

Answer 5

national security is the most important because the state is necessary for it’s citizens to have a good life. state needs to be there to protect its society and the basic conditions for its people

Question 6

According to Realists, why can states not rely on each other?

Answer 6

all states are looking to pursue their own best interests. treaties and such are there but can and will be put to the side if it conflict with national interests.

Question 7

Thucydides two important realist claims?

Answer 7

1. the structure of the international system affects relations between states
2. Moral reasoning has little bearing on relations between states

Question 8

Thucydides and equality

Answer 8

the states are not equal, justice and equality is based on your own strength and your place. Unequal power is just the reality

Question 9

What does the fox and lion represent?

Answer 9

Lion is power and fox is deception. Machivelli says that these are both essential to have for foreign policy. Rulers must be both foxes and lions