Realism
- Created by: Ashleigh Campbell
- Created on: 03-11-14 20:47
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- Realism
- 4 Propositions
- The international system is anarchic
- There is no actor above states capable of regulating their interactions
- States are the most important actors.
- It is unitary and autonomous because it speaks and acts with one voice
- The power of the state is understood in terms of its military capabilities.
- All states within the system are unitary, rational actors.
- States tend to pursue self-interest.
- Groups strive to attain as many resources as possible
- The primary concern of all states is survival.
- States build up military to survive, which may lead to 'Security Dilemma'.
- The international system is anarchic
- 2 main people behind the idea of Realism
- Thomas Hobbes
- Views human nature as egocentric (not necessarily selfish) and conflictual unless there exist conditions under which humans may coexist
- This view contrasts with the approach of liberalism to international relations.
- In regards to self-interest, these individuals are self-reliant and are motivated in seeking more power.
- This view contrasts with the approach of liberalism to international relations.
- In regards to self-interest, these individuals are self-reliant and are motivated in seeking more power.
- Views human nature as egocentric (not necessarily selfish) and conflictual unless there exist conditions under which humans may coexist
- Niccolo Machiavelli
- Thomas Hobbes
- The state emphasizes an interest in accumulating power to ensure security in an anarchic world
- Power is a concept primarily thought of in terms of material resources necessary to induce harm or coerce other states (to fight and win wars).
- A key concept under realism is the international distribution of power referred to as system polarity.
- Polarity refers to the number of blocs of states that exert power in an international system
- A multipolar system is composed of three or more blocs
- A bipolar system is composed of two blocs.
- A unipolar system is dominated by a single power or hegemon.
- Under unipolarity realism predicts that states will band together to oppose the hegemon and restore a balance of power.
- Polarity refers to the number of blocs of states that exert power in an international system
- States are inherently aggressive (offensive realism) and/or obsessed with security (defensive realism)
- Territorial expansion is only constrained by opposing power(s)
- Realists believe that there are no universal principles with which all states may guide their actions.
- 4 Propositions
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