3.7: Student Resources

Summary

Theories are well-substantiated frameworks that explain observable phenomena based on hypotheses, evidence, and thorough testing. In international relations, realism is one of the major theoretical approaches. Realism, an approach rooted in a pessimistic view of human nature in which individuals are inherently self-interested, explains state behavior and the configuration of the international system based on the distribution of power and the current non-hierarchical world order. States are the dominant actors, considered rational and unitary, and they operate on the principle of sovereignty. The international system is anarchic and power—namely, relative power—is the primary determinant of state behavior. Because cooperation is sometimes necessary, state behavior may take the form of bandwagoning or balancing, depending on the distribution of power in the international system. Despite realism’s simplicity and explanatory potential, it suffers from multiple critiques, including difficulty in explaining some important global events and a simplistic view of national interest based only on security.

Key Terms

• Alliance is “a formal agreement between two or more states for mutual support in case of war” (Britannica).
• Anarchy is the absence of a central (world) government that regulates the interactions between states.
• Balance of power is when states act to prevent any one state or coalition from becoming too dominant.
• Balancing is when a state joins other states to oppose a stronger power that it views as a threat.
• Bandwagoning, or joining forces, is when a state aligns itself with a stronger power (to gain some benefit, such as protection or resources).
• Deterrence is any strategy used to prevent an adversary from taking an undesirable action.
• Hegemon is a state that dominates in the international system.
• Hegemonic Stability Theory is a theory arguing that the overwhelming dominance of a hegemon allows that state to set and enforce the “rules of the game” in the international system, thereby promoting stability and cooperation.
• National interest refers to the goals and objectives of a sovereign state.
• Rational actor is a realist assumption that the state, a unitary actor (see definition below), makes decisions based on its self-interest, aiming to maximize benefits and minimize costs.
• Realism is a theory that explains state behavior and the configuration of the international system based on the distribution of power and the current non-hierarchical world order.
• Relative gains refer to the amount that one state gains in comparison to other states.
• Security dilemma occurs when one state’s efforts to increase its security—such as expanding its military or forming alliances—causes other states to perceive this buildup as a threat. This perception then leads to an arms race or a cycle of escalating tensions, even when no state intends to initiate conflict.
• Self-help system is one in which states must rely on their own capabilities—military, economic, or otherwise—if they wish to ensure their survival.
• Sovereignty is a principle under which each state is fundamentally equal in legal terms and free to act independently without the consent of any higher authority.
• Theory is a well-substantiated framework that explains observable phenomena based on hypotheses, evidence, and thorough testing.
• Unitary actor is a realist assumption that the state is a single entity that speaks with one voice.
• Zero-sum means a situation in which a gain for one side entails a corresponding loss for the other side.

Critical Thinking Questions

1. How does the concept of anarchy lead realists to predict that conflict is inevitable in international relations? What factors within this anarchic system contribute to the idea that states will prioritize their security over cooperation?
2. How does the security dilemma show the challenges states face in an anarchic world, and what can states do to reduce the risks that come with it?
3. Think about how relevant realism is in today's world. How much do you believe its ideas about human nature and how states act are still true when we look at current global issues?

Suggestions for Further Study

Web Resources

• Brief video summation: “Theory in Action: Realism”
• Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy – Political Realism
• Project Gutenberg: Thucydides, Machiavelli, and Hobbes (primary texts from thinkers often cited as intellectual inspiration to realism)
• The Wilson Center: Cold War International History Project (documents and analysis relevant to realist behavior during the Cold War)
• The National Security Archive (declassified U.S. documents offering real-world cases of realist foreign policy)

Journal Articles

• Jervis, R. (1978). Cooperation under the Security Dilemma. World Politics, 30(2), 167-214.
• Legro, J.W., & A. Moravcsik. (1999). Is Anybody Still a Realist? International Security, 24(2): 5-55.
• Mearsheimer, J.J. (1994/5). The False Promise of International Institutions. International Security, 19(3): 5-49.

Books

• Mearsheimer, J.J. (2001). The Tragedy of Great Power Politics. W.W. Norton & Company.
• Morgenthau, H.J. (1948). Politics Among Nations: The Struggle for Power and Peace. Alfred A. Knopf.
• Waltz, K.N. (1959). Man, the State, and War: A Theoretical Analysis. Columbia University Press.
• Waltz, K.N. (1979). Theory of International Politics. Waveland Press.