Comparative theories thinkers Flashcards
Hans Morgenthau - likelihood of conflict
Likelihood of Conflict: Morgenthau believed that conflict is an inherent part of international relations. He argued that human nature, driven by the desire for power, leads states to compete, making war a persistent possibility.
Hans Morgenthau - role of the state
Role of the State: In Morgenthau’s view, the state is the primary actor in international politics. He emphasized the importance of national interest, which he defined in terms of power. States act rationally to maximize their power and security.
Hans Morgenthau - sovereignty
Sovereignty: Morgenthau regarded state sovereignty as crucial for maintaining order and stability in international relations. He believed that the sovereignty of states is often challenged by the anarchic nature of the international system, where no overarching authority exists to regulate state behavior.
Hans Morgenthau - power of IGOs
Power of IGOs: While recognizing the existence and function of Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs), Morgenthau was skeptical about their ability to significantly alter the balance of power. He viewed them as tools for states to pursue their interests rather than as independent actors capable of enforcing peace or cooperation.
Kenneth Waltz - likelihood of conflict
Waltz argued that conflict is a likely outcome in an anarchic international system where no central authority exists to regulate state behavior. He believed that the structure of the system, rather than human nature, is the primary driver of conflict, as states are compelled to compete for security and power.
Kenneth Waltz - role of the state
For Waltz, the state is the principal actor in international relations. He emphasized that states are rational entities seeking to ensure their survival in a competitive environment. The state’s actions are largely determined by its position within the international system rather than its individual characteristics.
Kenneth Waltz - sovereignty
Waltz considered state sovereignty essential for maintaining order. Sovereignty allows states to operate independently and pursue their national interests. However, he recognized that in an anarchic system, the concept of sovereignty is often tested by the actions of other states and the potential for conflict.
Kenneth Waltz - power of IGOs
Waltz viewed Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs) as limited in their influence. While they can facilitate cooperation and provide a platform for dialogue, they ultimately reflect the interests of their member states and do not possess power independent of the states that comprise them. He believed that IGOs could help manage conflicts but would not fundamentally alter the anarchic nature of the international system.
John Mearsheimer - likelihood of conflict
Mearsheimer argues that conflict is highly likely in the international system, primarily due to the anarchic nature of international relations. States are driven by a desire for power and security, leading them to pursue aggressive policies to ensure their survival and dominance.
John Mearsheimer - role of the state
For Mearsheimer, the state is the central actor in international politics. He emphasizes that states act rationally to maximize their power, often at the expense of others. National interest, defined in terms of power, drives state behavior, leading to competition and conflict.
John Mearsheimer - sovereignty
: Mearsheimer sees state sovereignty as crucial in the anarchic international order. States must maintain their sovereignty to protect their interests and security. However, he notes that sovereignty can be compromised by the aggressive actions of other states.
John Mearsheimer - power of IGOs
Mearsheimer is skeptical about the effectiveness of Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs). He believes they play a limited role in mitigating conflict, as they primarily reflect the interests of powerful states rather than acting as independent authorities. In his view, IGOs cannot fundamentally change the competitive nature of the international system..
Robert Keohane - likelihood of conflict
Likelihood of Conflict: Keohane acknowledges that conflict is possible but believes it can be mitigated through cooperation and institutions. Unlike realists, he emphasizes that states can find ways to resolve disputes and work together, especially in an increasingly interdependent world.
Robert Keohane - role of the state
While Keohane recognizes the state as a central actor, he emphasizes the importance of non-state actors and transnational networks. He believes states operate in a complex interdependent environment where cooperation can lead to mutual benefits.
Robert Keohane - sovereignty
: Keohane views state sovereignty as important but also subject to change in the context of globalization and interdependence. He argues that states can choose to pool their sovereignty through institutions to achieve common goals, thereby enhancing their overall security and prosperity.
