neorealism
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Neorealism is a theory in international relations that emerged in the 1970s, particularly associated with Kenneth Waltz. It is a branch of realism, a set of theories emphasizing the role of states, national interest, and power in global politics.
Neorealism focuses on the anarchical structure of the international system as the primary driver of state behavior. Unlike classical realism, it emphasizes systemic factors over domestic politics or human nature. States are seen as rational actors primarily concerned with survival in a "self-help" system. Neorealism posits that the distribution of power among states shapes international relations and that a bipolar system (two dominant powers) is the most stable. Debates within neorealism distinguish between "defensive" and "offensive" approaches, focusing on whether states prioritize security or power maximization.12
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John J. Mearsheimer…of international relations known as neorealism. Whereas classical realists such as Hans Morgenthau had traced international conflicts to the natural propensity of political leaders to seek to increase their power, neorealists (or structural realists) such as Waltz located the cause of war in the structure of international relations. In Waltz’s…
Read More…of international relations known as neorealism. Whereas classical realists such as Hans Morgenthau had traced international conflicts to the natural propensity of political leaders to seek to increase their power, neorealists (or structural realists) such as Waltz located the cause of war in the structure of international relations. In Waltz’s…
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Alexander Wendt…dominant theory in the field, neorealism (or structural realism), by arguing that the system it takes for granted is in fact socially constructed. Neorealists argued that, in the context of “anarchy” (the absence of any authority above the state), international politics is directly determined by the distribution of power among…
Read More…dominant theory in the field, neorealism (or structural realism), by arguing that the system it takes for granted is in fact socially constructed. Neorealists argued that, in the context of “anarchy” (the absence of any authority above the state), international politics is directly determined by the distribution of power among…
Read More