3.6: Conclusion

Despite the critiques identified in 3.4, realism remains a dominant framework in the study of international relations. One of its greatest strengths is its simplicity. Realism’s foundational assumptions—states are the central actors, the international system is anarchic, and states seek power to ensure their survival—are straightforward and easy to grasp. This simplicity is what makes realism so appealing. As a theory, it offers a parsimonious outlook, meaning it seeks to explain complex global dynamics with a small number of core assumptions. This makes it an attractive tool for predicting state behavior, particularly when states face security dilemmas or conflicts of interest.

Realism’s simplicity also gives it substantial predictive power. By focusing on the centrality of power and security concerns, realism is often able to predict that states will act in ways that protect their sovereignty and pursue military advantage when necessary. This kind of prediction is appealing to policymakers who need clear guidance in a world that often seems chaotic and uncertain. As such, realism is a helpful framework for understanding certain aspects of state behavior, particularly in periods of international tension.

Interestingly, after experiencing a period of decline following the end of the Cold War, there has been a resurgence of realist theory in recent years. As states question the value of international institutions, interdependence, and global cooperation, the principles of realism—such as the pursuit of power, national security, and self-interest—have gained renewed attention. For example, states like the U.S., China, and Russia are increasingly acting in ways that prioritize their own national interests, often at the expense of multilateral cooperation or international norms. This trend has led many scholars and policymakers to revisit realist ideas, seeing them as useful tools for understanding contemporary international dynamics.

In this sense, realism offers a simple, pragmatic lens through which to interpret state behavior, especially when the international system feels more uncertain and competitive. Realism’s emphasis on power, security, and survival remains relevant in a world where states often perceive themselves as being in competition for limited resources and influence.