Realism Origins

Question 1

Grand Theory

Answer 1

comprehensive approach to world politics

Question 2

Mid-Range Theory

Answer 2

rooted in grand theory, but focused on “smaller” questions.

Question 3

Assumptions of Realism

Answer 3

States most important (unitary) actor.
* Rationality
* Basic goal is gaining security and ensuring survival.
* International system is anarchic.
* Self-help system.
* Ongoing struggle for power.
* Hobbes: “A war of all against all.”
* Relative gains, not absolute gains

Question 3

Coercive Diplomacy

Answer 3

Threats of force used to alter another states behaviour.

Question 3

Power

Answer 3

The means to influence others.

Ability to make others behave in ways they otherwise would not.

More than material resources.

Question 4

Military Power and Influence

Answer 4

Military power does not guarantee influence.

Question 5

Reputation

Answer 5

States that don’t follow through with threats and commitments will not be taken seriously in future.

Threats must always be taken seriously if state has power and
interest in following through with threat.

Question 6

Hard power.

Answer 6

Using military capabilities to influence the behaviour of other states.

Question 7

Soft power.

Answer 7

• Influencing the behaviour of other states by making them want what you want.
• The appeal of a particular country’s ideas and culture.
• Attraction rather than coercion.

Question 8

Sources of Soft Power

Answer 8

Culture.
Values.
Foreign Policy.