Realism

• Realism has 4 different assumptions
• 1st assumption: States are the principal actors in anarchical world

  -states represent they key unit of analysis

  -non-state actors are seen as less important by realists
• 2nd assumption: the state is viewed as a unitary actor

  -sees the state as an integrated unit vs the outside world outside

  -sees political differences within the state as being resolved authoritatively-the state speaks with one voice for the state as a whole.
• 3rd assumption: the state is a rational actor

  • they exemplify objectives, and consideration of all possible outcomes
  • rank of policies
  • choice made is always perceived to be a satisfactory outcome.
• 4th assumption: National or international security has main priority

  • economic matters are only important to the extent that they contribute to the power of state
  • state use power in terms of their capabilities compared to another state
• Neorealists: emphasizes the security implications of the distribution of power of the international system of states

  • unipolar (one great power)
  • Bipolar (two great powers)
  • Multipolar (three or more great powers)
• Most important factor of the state based on realism is to maintain security
• Realist theory suggests that states will act rationally to maximize their own interests and minimize threats from other states
• The balance of power refers to the relative strength of different states in relation to each other
• Balance of Power Theory: The idea that states seek to prevent any single state from becoming too powerful, leading them to form alliances against dominant powers.
• Classical realists: emphasizes the impact of history, international law and action taken by its political leaders.
• Geopolitical writers- emphasize that a states' geographic location or territory has significant political implications
• mid-twenty century writers

  • carr
  • Niebuhr
  • Hans J Morgenthau
  • John H. Herz
• Security Dilemma: Actions taken by one side threaten the opponent and lead to a response in kind that undermines the security of one's side.
• Power (in realist pov)

  • Capabilities of state : military, technological, diplomatic..
  • Capabilities of state in comparison to other state's capabilities
  • both use a static view
• static view of power: an attribute of the state that is to sum of its capabilities whether considered alone or relative to other states.
• Interaction of states: States influence is not only determined by its influence but also by 1) its willingness to use those capabilities and 2) its control or influence over the states
• Anarchy–absence of any legitimate power above states (states are sovereign)