Realism Flashcards
What do Classic Realists argue?
That we as humans and NS are motivated by a desire for power and security
What do Neo-realists argue?
Since NS are primary actors in global politics - primary motivation is self interest
Niccolo Machiavelli book and year
The Prince
1469-1527
Niccolo Machiavelli quote
IACS
MIVC
Humans are “insatiable, arrogant, crafty and shifting and above all malignant, iniquitous, violent and savage”
What role did Lord Palmerston own?
Victorian PM
Lord Palmerston quote
“We have no eternal alliance and no perpetual enemies. Our interests are eternal and perpetual and those interests it is our duty to follow”
Example of defensive realist?
Kenneth Waltz
What do defensive realists argue?
Emphasise need for security
NS “security maximisers”
Example of offensive realists?
John Mersheimer
What do offensive realists argue?
More predatory than DR
“Power maximisers”
To seek influence as well as security
John Mersheimer about no higher authority in global politics?
No ‘night watchman’
International anarchy
No supranational authority
That can impose rules
Therefore conducted without laws
States can act according to their own interests
What is the security dilemma?
By building up military and achieving balance of power
A NS will make other NS feel vulnerable so they also have to increase power in order to protect their security
