Theories of IR (Lec 2)

Question 1

Realism

Answer 1

• Global politics is about power and self-interest
• a ‘power politics’ model of IR
• core theme of realism equation: egoism + anarchy = power politics

Question 2

2 Core assumptions about Power Politics

Answer 2

Egoism is the defining characteristic of human nature (selfish and competitive)
The state - system operates in a context of international anarchy; there is no authority higher than the sovereign state

Question 3

Key Themes within Realism

Answer 3

• State egoism and conflict
• Statecraft and the national interest
• International anarchy and its implications
• Polarity, stability, and the balance of power

Question 4

State of Nature

Answer 4

Term coined by Hobbes
A society devoid of political authority and of formal/legal checks on the individual

*The only way to escape this according to Hobbes is through the creation of a state - an unchallengeable power

Question 5

Effect of ‘state of nature’ ideas on IR

Answer 5

• no form of world government can be established therefore global politics is conducted in an ‘international state of nature’ -> meaning it is volatile and order/stability are the exception, not the rule
• realism is state-centric as they view them as the most important actors on the world stage
• state egoism: states are led by people who selfish/greedy/power-seeking, thus state behaviour exhibits the same behaviour. It’s primary concern is survival and self interest -> state egoism means that international politics is marked by inevitable rivalry and competition (conflict)

Question 6

National Interest

Answer 6

Realism places its statecraft emphasis on national interest (aligns with egoism theory).
State policy should be in pursuit of national interests (suggests states should be guided by wellbeing of citizens)

Question 7

Realism and Morality

Answer 7

Realists reject universal principles of morality meant to be applied to all states in all circumstances

Though nationally-based political morality is encouraged (for the wellbeing of citizens)

Question 8

Neo-realism (Structural Realism)

Answer 8

• shifts focus from states to the international system
• using systems theory explains behaviour of states in terms of the international system
• emerged due to failure of classical realism to explain behaviour at level above state
• ‘outside-in’ theory (exogenous)

Question 9

Neo-realism and International Anarchy

Answer 9

• International anarchy leads to conflict and inevitable war for 3 reasons
  -> ‘self-help’ - states cannot rely on anyone else to take care of them and their interests
  -> ‘security dilemma’ - inter-state relationships are characterised by uncertainty and suspicion
  -> ‘relative gains’ - states are primarily concerned with improving their relative position

Question 10

• Polarity & Stability; p61)