Session 4: Neorealism

Question 1

What is realism?

Answer 1

Realism is a collection of ideas (not a single unified theory) that stress its competitive and conflictual side. It has historically been the dominant view of politics, and it has been instrumental in shaping International Relations

Question 2

What is a paradigm?

Answer 2

A paradigm is a series of interrelated theories (ideas) which join together to form an intellectual worldview that dominates our understanding of how the world works

Question 3

What are some of the criticisms of the human nature argument?

Answer 3

1. Realism only focuses on one-half of the human condition. Positive qualities like generosity, cooperation, and the need for social relations is not regarded
2. There is evidence to support multiple views of human nature
3. There is no ethical way to prove human nature arguments
4. Human nature is invariant(never changing), while periods of war & peace are variable. This means that human nature cannot explain periods of war and peace

Question 4

Who was the founder of neorealism/structural realism?

Answer 4

Ken Waltz

Question 5

What are the 3 structures of the international system?

Answer 5

1. Ordering principle among the Units
2. Functionality of the Units
3. Relative capacity of the Units
   (OFR)

Question 6

According to Waltz what is the most important function of the international system?

Answer 6

The distribution of relative capacity (power) is the most important element in the international system (so the third one)

Question 7

How are the Units arranged relative to each other?

Answer 7

Domestically & internationally

Question 8

When a conflict occurs what do parties do? Domestically vs internationally

Answer 8

Domestically–parties can appeal to a higher authority for assistance
Internationally–there is no higher authority. All states are equal in their isolation and resilience for self help (equally insecure)

Question 9

What does Waltz mean when he refers to the distribution of capacity?

Answer 9

When he refers to the distribution of capacity, he is referring to states abilities to perform different functions which produce variability (in regards to power)

Question 10

According to structural realists, when is war likely to occur and why?

Answer 10

when there is a shift in the distrubtion of power specifically a distribution of power in the interstate system

Question 11

What is a security dilema?

Answer 11

When a state’s increase in power results in a reduction in other state’s security