Introduction to Realism1. Classical Realism (Hans Morgenthau)A. Response to US IdealismB. Pursuit to Power (realpolitik)2. Neo-Realism (Kenneth Waltz)A. Aka Structural RealismB. Assumptions1. States are Rational Unitary Actors2. States seek security3. AnarchyC. Balance of Power1. Alliances2. Bandwagoning3. BalancingD. Polarity1. Uni-polarity/hegemony2. Bi polarity3. Multi polarityE. Security Dilemma- Prisoner’s Dilemma Realists focus on the role of the individual state concerning itself with power, security. Liberals look at the global community as a whole, looking beyond the state.Constructivist (Identity perspective) focus on cultural norms, values and cultural patterns. There are very large patterns of empires followed by states of equilibrium. 1. Classical Realism- develops around the time of the world warsIdealism- influenced by Enlightenment ideas, the perfectibility of manWars are created by flawed individuals and flaw individuals create flaw governments. If something is flawed it can be fixed such as creating better communication among states, respecting the sovereign rights of other states and spreading democracy. - The League of Nations was formed after WW1 was created to enhance communication among states and prevent war. Obviously failed, it was too idealistic. Realist thinkers view wars as natural and inevitable. States are interested in power and want more, which leads to conflict. Zero sum game- wanting power at someone else’s expense. Neo-Realism The role of the individual is taken out and the structure of the international system is highlighted. How states are aligned and work together. Focus taken off power and unto survival.EX. Classical Realist would claim Hitler caused WWII, Structural realist would claim that the structure of Europe caused it. - States are very individualistic, political ideology is irrelevant. Survival is upmost. - Anarchy is undisputed between the realists’, liberals and constructivists. There is no international power. The UN does not govern, it is used for peacekeeping. A state of anarchy does breed insecurity - Internationally we need a balance of power, states need allies. - Bandwagoning-smaller states join the powerful states. Alliances are not fixed however and can change. Doesn’t help the weaker state in the long term, many times the larger state will turn on the smaller. Ex. Soviet Union and Germany in WWII. - 1871- German unification upset balance of power in Europe - Uni-polarity- one state having all the power. US was hegemon after the cold war when the soviet union fell. - Bi-polarity- two major powers, if they have equal power they off set each other. Most stable sense of security. - Muli-polarity- what the world is currently moving into with the US, China, EU. Alliances become trickier. - Realists don’t believe that communication will guarantee cooperation. When we cooperate with other powers we see them gaining as well. - The realists are not going to completely trust International Institutions - Some cases causes preemption. Ex. Israel with
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