Chapter 6 Flashcards
Define realism
The theoretical approach that analyses all international relations as the relation of states engaged in the pursuit of power. Realism cannot accommodate non-state actors within its analysis.
Define state
A recognized political unit with a defined territory, a population, and central government that is sovereign over both land and people.
Define reason of state (raison d’etat)
The practical application of the doctrine of realism and virtually synonymous with it.
Define dual moral standard
In realist theory, the idea that there are two principles or standards of right and wrong; one for the individual citizen and a different one for the state.
Define political community
A community that wishes to govern itself and be free from alien rule
Define statism
In realist theory, the ideology that supports the organization of humankind into particular communities; the values and beliefs of that community are protected and sustained by the state.
Define survival
The first priority for state leaders, emphasized by historical realists such as Machiavelli, Meinecke, and Weber.
Define self-help
In realist theory, in an anarchical environment, states cannot assume other states will come to their defence even if they are allies. Each state must take care of itself.
Define structure
In philosophy of the social sciences, a structure is something that exists independently of the actor (e.g. social class) but is an important determinant in the nature of the action (e.g. revolution). For contemporary structural realists, the number of great powers in the international system constitutes the structure.
Define power
In the most general sense, the ability of a political actor to achieve its goals. In the realist approach, it is the assumed possession of capabilities will result in influences, so the single, power, is often used ambiguously to cover both.
Define national interest
Invoked by realists and state leaders to signify that which is most important to the state - survival being at the top of the list.
Define integration
A process of ever closer union between states, in a regional or international context. The process often beings with cooperation to solve technical problems, referred to by Mitrany (1943) as ramification.
Define security community
‘A group of people which has become “integrate”. By integration we mean the attainment, within a territory, of a “sense of community” and of institutions and practices strong enough and wide-spread enough to assure… dependable, expectations of “peaceful change” among its population. By a “sense of community” we mean a belief… that common social problems must and can be resolved by processes of “peaceful change”.
Define non-state actors
A term widely used to mean any actor that is not a government.
Define national interests
Invoked by realists and state leaders to signify that is most important to the state - survival being at the top of the list
