Structural realism/neorealism

Question 1

Different to classical because it says

Answer 1

IP not just struggle for power but a result of inherent anarchy

Question 2

defensive realism characterised by Waltz as

Answer 2

1. Organising principle
2. Differentiation of units
3. Distribution of capabilities/(power) (DEPENDENT VARIABEL:crucial to understanding int. outcomes- Waltz)

Question 3

a. Anarchy, hierarchy (basis of dom order

Answer 3

1. Organising principle

Question 4

a. Units-functionally similar sovereign states

Answer 4

2. Differentiation of units

Question 5

a. Neorealists want to count how many great powers there are to determine structure of IS
b. How does this affect state behaviour? Recognise that security is ultimately more important than power (security maximising over power maximising)
o Self-help the basic principle of action

Answer 5

3. Distribution of capabilities/(power) (DEPENDENT VARIABEL:crucial to understanding int. outcomes- Waltz)

Question 6

3. Distribution of capabilities/(power) (DEPENDENT VARIABEL:crucial to understanding int. outcomes- Waltz)

Answer 6

a. Neorealists want to count how many great powers there are to determine structure of IS
b. How does this affect state behaviour? Recognise that security is ultimately more important than power (security maximising over power maximising)
o Self-help the basic principle of action

Question 7

Mearsheimer’s theory of offensive realism (Differs to Waltz w. regard to how much power states want)

Answer 7

1. Structure of IS means states want to maximise their power status
2. States are never satisfied- will always pursue more power
3. Dif. to waltz: argues states see gaining peace as having more power than others – be global hegemon(this is impossible though)
    Because of this, thinks that IS will always be comp btw. great powers

Question 8

how does Mearsheimer’s theory of offensive realism differ to Waltz’s theory of defensive realism?

Answer 8

1.how much power states wan
2.Dif. to waltz: argues states see gaining peace as having more power than others – be global hegemon(this is impossible though)
 Because of this, thinks that IS will always be comp btw. great powers

Question 9

how many core assumptions do neo-realists have?

Answer 9

six

Question 10

1. states & other actors interact in an

Answer 10

anarchy

Question 11

2. structure of system determines

Answer 11

behaviour

Question 12

3. states are

Answer 12

self-interested & they favour self-help over coop (due to anarchy)

Question 13

4. states rational actors

Answer 13

want to maximise benefits

Question 14

5.biggest prob of anarchy

Answer 14

survival

Question 15

6.states view other states as

Answer 15

potential enemies–> creating security dilemma.