Realism Flashcards
What is the core principle of Realism in International Relations?
Realism is based on the view that states are primary actors in international politics, operating in a system characterised by anarchy.
What do state sovereignty and anarchy signify in Realism?
States are sovereign and operate in an international system without overarching authority, leading to self-help behavior.
What is the focus of states according to Realism?
States focus on ensuring their survival by maximizing power and influence, leading to power politics.
Front: What is the Security Dilemma in Realism?
Efforts by states to increase their security can provoke insecurity in others, potentially leading to conflict.
How is stability achieved in international relations according to Realism?
Stability is often achieved through a balance of power, preventing any single state from dominating.
What are the key variants of Realism?
Classical Realism (focus on human nature), Neorealism (focus on international system structure), Offensive Realism (states seek to maximize power).
What is Offensive Realism?
Offensive Realism posits that states inherently seek to gain as much power as possible, often leading to conflicts for dominance.
Who are key theorists associated with Realism?
Thucydides, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Morgenthau; Kenneth Waltz (Neorealism), John Mearsheimer (Offensive Realism).
How does Realism view international cooperation?
Realism is skeptical about lasting international cooperation, viewing it as temporary and based on states’ self-interests.
What is the Realist stance on international law and organizations?
Realism contends that international laws and organizations are less effective and often manipulated by powerful states to serve their own interests.
What role does morality play in Realist theory?
Realism often downplays the role of morality in international politics, emphasizing pragmatic and strategic considerations over ethical concerns.
How does Realism explain the occurrence of war?
Realism explains war as a result of power struggles and conflicts of interest among sovereign states in an anarchic international system.
What are the key differences between Classical Realism and Neorealism?
Classical Realism focuses on human nature and individual leaders’ power desires, while Neorealism centers on the anarchic structure of the international system.
What does Offensive Realism say about hegemony?
Offensive Realism suggests that states not only strive for security but also seek regional or global hegemony as a means of ensuring their ultimate survival
What are some common criticisms of Realism?
Criticisms include its state-centric focus, neglect of non-state actors and global issues, oversimplification of state motives, and disregard for ethical dimensions.
