Notes on Realist Theory in International Relations

Introduction to Realist Theory

Importance of States:
- Individual actors and international organizations are less important than states.
- Great power states hold particular significance.
International Anarchy:
- Characterized by the absence of a central authority in the global community.
- Leads to a self-help system where states must fend for themselves.
Self-Help System:
- In an anarchic environment, states must be prepared to protect themselves and ensure their sovereignty.
- This may lead to arms races and conflict spirals.
- Example: A state acquiring military capabilities can be seen as either defensive or offensive, creating ambiguity.

The difficulty in distinguishing between offensive and defensive capabilities contributes to insecurity among states.
States engage in arms races to counter perceived threats, complicating international relations.

Focuses on the distribution of power among states rather than just individual state behavior.
Concepts:
- Polarity: Refers to the concentration of power in the global community.
  - Unipolarity: Power concentrated in one state.
  - Bipolarity: Power concentrated between two states.
  - Multipolarity: Power spread among multiple states.
Structural realists emphasize how power distribution affects international dynamics.

Defensive Realism:
- Focus on maintaining minimal levels of security to avoid conflicts.
Offensive Realism:
- Advocates for dominance over others, requiring greater power to influence global affairs.

Encourage analysis of current issues (e.g., nuclear weapons in Iran, military actions in China) through a realist lens.
Consider the implications of state behavior and power distribution in understanding global events.