For years, scholars have been using different theories to analyze the way nations interact in the international systems. The purpose of this paper therefore is to discuss the Classical realism theory and apply it under the three recognized levels of analysis.
The first section of the paper will define the key terms, the emergence and the four central assumptions of realism will also be discussed before focusing on Classical realism, to lay a smooth foundation for understanding this theory. The third section of the paper will discuss Classical realism, supporting it with examples. The fourth section will therefore focus on the three levels of analysis, and under each level the theory will be applied with relevant examples. Lastly, a conclusion will be drawn summing up all the main arguments of the paper.
Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
2. DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS
2.1 PARADIGM
2.2 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (IR)
2.3 LEVELS OF ANALYSIS
3. EMERGENCE OF REALISM
4. FOUR CENTRAL ASSUMPTIONS OF REALISM
5. CLASSICAL REALISM
6. LEVELS OF ANALYSIS
6.1 INDIVIDUAL LEVEL
6.1.1 CLASSICAL REALISM AT THE INDIVIDUAL LEVEL
6.2 EXAMPLES
6.3 STATE LEVEL OF ANALYSIS
6.3.1 CLASSICAL REALISM AT STATE LEVEL
6.4 THE INTERNATIONAL LEVEL OF ANALYSIS
6.4.1 CLASSICAL REALISM AT THE INTERNATIONAL LEVEL
7. CONCLUSION
Objectives and Topics
This paper aims to explore Classical Realism theory by applying its core principles across the three distinct levels of analysis—individual, state, and international—to explain state behavior and the dynamics of conflict in global politics.
- Theoretical foundations of Classical Realism
- The role of human nature in International Politics
- Application of the Waltzian levels of analysis
- Mechanisms of the security dilemma and arms races
- The impact of anarchy on international justice
Excerpt from the Book
CLASSICAL REALISM
Classical realism puts more emphasis on the role of human nature in International Politics (Korab-Karpowicz, 2006, p. 233). It argues that power lies in human nature, as the laws that govern politics are made by men and also emphasizes that International Politics is a struggle for power which emanates from human nature (Morgenthau 1948; 25).The theory states that people are greedy, insecure and aggressive and they also competes for scarce resources, so this makes them to attack one another for gain. The lust to possess power and selfishness of individuals are considered to be the causes or bases of conflicts that emanates amongst the individuals (Brown, 2009, p. 260). In addition to that, Hobbes identified three principal causes of conflicts which are fundamental to human nature; competition, diffidence and glory (Hobbes, 1651, pp. Part I, chs.13, xiv).
Due to the desire to maximise their gains, human beings are likely to act irrationally as they are naïve, gullible and can be easily manipulated. People want to achieve their own interests and in so doing, they are prone to irrational behaviour as they become simple minded and likely to be controlled and used (Shimko, 1992, p. 249).
Classical realism is a state level theory that argues that all states seek power, which is driven by desire to achieve national interests. Power is the key concept for realists and they argue that to survive, states must increase their power by internal development such as in the economic system, technological, diplomatic and military means (Nayef, 2007, p. 21). The theory argues that states seek to increase their power and decrease the power of their enemies and everything they do is in the name of power accumulation (Jervis, 1994, p. 856). States in this theory see others with power as enemies, because power when is not in your hands is threatening.
Summary of Chapters
INTRODUCTION: Outlines the purpose of the paper to discuss Classical Realism and apply it to the three recognized levels of analysis.
DEFINITION OF KEY TERMS: Establishes foundational definitions for paradigms and International Relations to provide a theoretical baseline.
EMERGENCE OF REALISM: Traces the historical shift from Idealism to Realism, highlighting key thinkers and the context of the 1930s and post-WWII era.
FOUR CENTRAL ASSUMPTIONS OF REALISM: Details the four core premises of Realism, including the focus on the state as the primary actor and the concept of rational, unitary behavior.
CLASSICAL REALISM: Explores the philosophical roots of Classical Realism, particularly the influence of human nature, power, and conflict.
LEVELS OF ANALYSIS: Systematically applies Classical Realism to the Individual, State, and International levels, utilizing historical examples like the Peloponnesian War and WWI.
CONCLUSION: Synthesizes the main arguments, reaffirming that power struggles and international anarchy are the inevitable consequences of human nature and the lack of a central global authority.
Keywords
Classical Realism, International Relations, Levels of Analysis, Human Nature, Power Politics, Anarchy, Security Dilemma, National Interest, State Behavior, Foreign Policy, Balance of Power, Sovereignty, Conflict, Rational Actors, International System.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fundamental focus of this paper?
This paper focuses on the theoretical framework of Classical Realism and evaluates its explanatory power when applied through the three traditional levels of analysis: the individual, the state, and the international system.
What are the central themes discussed in the text?
Central themes include the role of human nature in driving political conflict, the concept of anarchy in the international arena, the security dilemma, and the pursuit of power as a national interest.
What is the primary research objective?
The primary objective is to demonstrate how Classical Realism explains international interactions and state behavior by applying its principles to different layers of political reality.
Which methodology is employed in this research?
The research employs a theoretical review and analysis methodology, utilizing the Waltzian levels-of-analysis framework to structure the evaluation of Classical Realist theory.
What topics are covered in the main body of the work?
The main body covers the definition of core IR concepts, the historical evolution of Realism, detailed assumptions of the theory, and the specific application of these principles across individual, state, and systemic levels.
How would you characterize the keywords of this research?
The research is characterized by keywords centered on political realism, structural anarchy, state sovereignty, and the dynamics of power and conflict in global systems.
How does Classical Realism view the relationship between human nature and war?
Classical Realism posits that war emanates from human nature; because individuals are inherently greedy, selfish, and power-seeking, these traits are reflected in the actions of the states they lead, leading to inevitable conflict.
What is the significance of the "security dilemma" in this text?
The text highlights the security dilemma as a consequence of anarchy, where one state's efforts to increase its security through military accumulation are perceived as a threat by others, triggering an arms race that often results in war.
What conclusion does the author draw regarding justice in international affairs?
The author concludes that within an anarchic international system lacking a central governing authority, justice is often secondary to power; stronger states typically set rules that favor their own interests at the expense of weaker nations.
- Quote paper
- Ednah M Peter (Author), 2015, Classical Realism and International Relations, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/310216
