Theories and Approaches: Classical approach Idealism, and Realism in International Relations 

 

1) Classical approach: Idealism  

Classical Idealism, also known as Liberalism, is an approach in international relations that emphasizes cooperation, international institutions, and the promotion of shared values as a means to achieve peace and stability. 

Here's a closer look at Idealism in international relations: 

• Authors and Thinkers: 

Woodrow Wilson: 

Wilson was a prominent advocate of Idealism and played a significant role in shaping the post-World War I international order. He championed the idea of a League of Nations and called for a  more cooperative and rule-based global system. 

Immanuel Kant: 

Although Kant's work predates the term "Idealism" in international relations, his ideas on perpetual peace and the importance of republican government in maintaining peaceful relations between states have been influential in shaping Idealist thought. 

John Rawls: 

Rawls, a political philosopher, contributed to the idealist perspective by focusing on justice,  fairness, and the importance of institutions in promoting cooperation and resolving conflicts. 

• Explanation: 

Idealism posits that states can transcend self-interest and work together to address common challenges and promote global cooperation. It emphasizes the following key points: 

Cooperation: 

Idealists believe that states can cooperate to achieve mutual benefits and collective security.  They argue that international cooperation can help solve global issues such as poverty, climate change,  and terrorism. 

International Institutions: 

Idealists emphasize the importance of international institutions, such as the  United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and the International Criminal Court. They view these institutions as essential for facilitating cooperation, promoting peaceful resolutions to conflicts, and establishing and upholding global norms and rules. 

Theories and Approaches: Classical approach Idealism, and Realism in International Relations 

Shared Values: 

Idealists argue that states with shared democratic values, respect for human rights, and the rule of law are more likely to cooperate and maintain peaceful relations with one another. They believe that promoting these values globally can contribute to stability and peace. 

• Assumptions: 

Cooperation Over Conflict: 

Idealists assume that cooperation is preferable to conflict and that states can find common ground to work together despite their differences. 

Interdependence: 

Idealists stress the interdependence of states in various areas, including economics,  technology, and the environment. They argue that interdependence creates incentives for cooperation and reduces the likelihood of conflict.

International Law and Norms: 

Idealists believe in the power of international law and norms to guide state behavior and provide a framework for resolving disputes peacefully. 

Democratic Peace: 

Idealists suggest that democratic states tend to be more peaceful with one another.  They argue that democratic governments, accountable to their citizens and guided by shared values, are less likely to engage in aggressive actions against fellow democracies. 

Overall, Idealism emphasizes the potential for international cooperation, the importance of institutions and shared values, and the belief that states can transcend self-interest to promote peace and stability in the international system. 

2) Classical approach: Realism  

Classical Realism is an approach in international relations that focuses on power, self-interest, and the pursuit of national security as key drivers of state behavior in the international system. 

Theories and Approaches: Classical approach Idealism, and Realism in International Relations 

Here's a closer look  at Realism in international relations: 

• Authors and Thinkers: 

Hans Morgenthau: 

Morgenthau is considered one of the foundational figures of Realism. His book "Politics  Among Nations" is a seminal work in the field, outlining realist principles and the role of power in international relations. 

E.H. Carr: 

Carr's book "The Twenty Years' Crisis" examines the failure of idealistic approaches in the interwar period and argues for a more realistic understanding of international politics. 

Kenneth Waltz: 

Waltz's work, particularly in his book "Theory of International Politics," is influential in structural realism, which focuses on the systemic factors that shape state behavior. 

• Explanation: 

Realism posits that states are the primary actors in international relations, and their behavior is driven by  the following key points: 

Power: 

Realists emphasize the central role of power in international relations. They argue that states seek to maximize their power and influence to ensure their survival and protect their national interests. 

Self-Interest: 

Realists assume that states act in their self-interest, prioritizing their security, economic well-being, and strategic advantage over collective or moral considerations. 

Anarchy: 

Realists view the international system as anarchic, meaning there is no overarching authority to enforce rules or prevent conflict. This anarchic nature leads to a self-help system, where states rely on their capabilities for survival. 

Balance of Power: 

Realists highlight the concept of balancing power among states. They argue that states seek to maintain a balance or equilibrium of power to prevent any single state from becoming too dominant and potentially threatening the security of others.

Theories and Approaches: Classical approach Idealism, and Realism in International Relations  

• Assumptions: 

State-Centric: 

Realists assume that the state is the primary unit of analysis in international relations. They view states as rational, unitary actors pursuing their interests. 

Self-Help: 

Realists assume that states are driven by self-preservation and must rely on their ilities to ensure their security and survival. 

Anarchy: 

Realists argue that the international system lacks a central authority, which results in competition and the potential for conflict among states. 

Distribution of Power: 

Realists emphasize the importance of power distribution among states. They contend that states constantly assess the power dynamics and seek to enhance their relative power position compared to other states. 

In summary, Classical Realism focuses on power, self-interest, and the anarchic nature of the international system. It highlights the pursuit of national security and the balancing of power as essential elements of state behavior in international relations.