Chapter 3, Paradigms : Realism

Question 1

what is the main unit of analysis in realist theory?

Answer 1

the main unit of analysis is the state.

Question 2

realists see states as _____, _____, and _____ actors.

Answer 2

realists see states as UNITARY, EGOISTIC, and RATIONAL actors.

Question 3

what is the main goal of a state?

Answer 3

states strive to survive and ensure their security.

Question 4

how can states ensure their security in a self-help system?

Answer 4

states can gain more economic, material and/or military power.

Question 5

what are the two strategies to gain more power?

Answer 5

1. internal strategy (economic development, military buildup)
   * keep in mind that cooperation is VERY limited in a realist perspective
2. external strategy (form alliances, launch a war to neutralize a potential threat)

Question 6

what are the two types of realist schools of thought?

Answer 6

realists are either defensive realists or offensive realists.

Question 7

define defensive realism.

Answer 7

for defensive realists, when a state has too much power, other states will balance against it, because they see the dominant state as a threat. this leads to more insecurity for everyone involved.

Question 8

define offensive realism.

Answer 8

for offensive realists, the optimal level of power is infinite (there is no such thing as having too much power). the more power you have, the more secure you are.

Question 9

what is the main theoretical premise of realism?

Answer 9

self-interested states compete constantly for power and security in a self-help system.