Notes on International Relations Theory - Realist Theory

Introduction to Realist Theory

• Dominance in International Relations: Realist theory is one of the most dominant approaches in international relations.
• Primary Actors: Realists believe that states are the primary actors, overshadowing individual actors and international organizations.

Key Concepts in Realism

• International Anarchy:

  • Definition: Lack of central authority in the global community.
  • Implication: States operate in a self-help environment due to international anarchy.

• Self-Help System:

  • Realists argue that states must be capable of helping themselves, as external assistance is uncertain (e.g., calling 911).
  • States must prepare to protect their sovereignty and arm themselves.

• Potential Conflict:

  • The global community is viewed as uncertain and fraught with potential conflicts and enemies.
  • The need for self-defense may lead to an arms race or conflict spiral.

Offensive and Defensive Capabilities

• Distinction Challenge:

  • It’s difficult to distinguish between offensive and defensive military capabilities.
  • Example: A weapon can be used for self-defense or for offensive actions.

• Arms Race:

  • States may feel pressured to arm themselves due to the offensive/defensive dilemma, leading to competitive military buildups.

Neorealism

• Focus on Power Distribution:

  • Neorealism emphasizes the distribution of power among states rather than individual state behavior.
  • Polarity:
    • Different types:
      • Unipolarity: Power concentrated in a single state.
      • Bipolarity: Power balanced between two states.
      • Multipolarity: Power distributed among multiple states.

• Structural Realists:

  • Focus on systemic nature of power distributions and their implications.

Offensive vs Defensive Realism

• Defensive Realism:
  • Aims for minimal levels of security to avoid attacks.
• Offensive Realism:
  • Seeks to dominate others and influence global affairs through power.

Applying Realist Lenses

• Analyzing Global Issues:
  • Use realist and neorealist lenses to analyze issues such as nuclear weapons development in Iran and militarization in China.
  • Reflect on how these perspectives shape responses to global decisions.