Classical Realism

Definition

Classical realism is a theory in international relations that emphasizes the role of power, self-interest, and the inevitability of conflict between states in global politics. It views the international system as inherently anarchic, where states are the primary actors pursuing their own security and national interests.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Classical realism views human nature as inherently selfish and power-seeking, which drives states to pursue their own interests and engage in power struggles.
2. According to classical realists, the international system is characterized by anarchy, where there is no central authority to enforce rules or prevent conflict.
3. Classical realists believe that states must rely on their own capabilities and resources to ensure their security, as they cannot trust other states to act in their best interests.
4. The balance of power is a central concept in classical realism, where states seek to maintain a balance of power to prevent any single state from becoming too dominant.
5. Classical realists argue that moral considerations and idealistic goals are often subordinate to the pursuit of national interests and the maintenance of power in international relations.

Review Questions

• Explain how the concept of anarchy in the international system shapes the classical realist perspective.
  • The classical realist view of the international system as inherently anarchic, lacking a central governing authority, is a key tenet of their theory. This anarchic environment, where states are the primary actors, leads classical realists to believe that states must rely on their own capabilities and resources to ensure their security and pursue their national interests. The absence of a higher power to enforce rules or prevent conflict drives states to engage in power struggles and adopt a self-help mentality, which is central to the classical realist worldview.
• Describe how the classical realist emphasis on power and national interests influences their approach to foreign policy and decision-making.
  • Classical realists believe that states are primarily motivated by the pursuit of power and the protection of their national interests. This leads them to prioritize the accumulation of material capabilities, such as military strength and economic resources, as a means of ensuring their security and influence in the international arena. Classical realists often advocate for a pragmatic, hardline approach to foreign policy, where moral considerations and idealistic goals are secondary to the practical concerns of maintaining power and safeguarding national interests, even if it means engaging in actions that may be perceived as unethical or aggressive by other states.
• Analyze how the classical realist perspective on the inevitability of conflict shapes their view of international cooperation and the role of international institutions.
  • Classical realists believe that conflict between states is inevitable due to the inherent selfishness and power-seeking nature of human beings, which is reflected in the behavior of states. As a result, they are generally skeptical of the ability of international institutions and cooperative frameworks to effectively resolve disputes or prevent war. Classical realists argue that states will ultimately prioritize their own interests over the collective good, and that international cooperation is often a facade masking the underlying pursuit of power and influence. This perspective leads classical realists to be wary of relying too heavily on international institutions and to emphasize the importance of maintaining a strong military and a pragmatic, self-interested approach to foreign policy.

Related terms

Anarchy: The absence of a central governing authority in the international system, leading to a state of competition and potential conflict between sovereign states.

National Interest: The goals and priorities that a state pursues to promote its security, economic well-being, and influence in the international arena.

Power Politics: The pursuit of power and influence by states through various means, including military force, economic leverage, and diplomatic maneuvering.