IR theories of Realism, Liberalism and Constructivism

Realism in International Relations
Name
Institution
Realism in International Relations
Realism is an International Relations (IR) theory that argues that nations should follow a Hobbesian system in which everyone else should be perceived as a threat and the only means of survival is to have power over the rivals. Realism feels that since there is anarchy in the international world, having more power is the only way that nations can ensure their sovereignty. This theory believes that power for a state is defined through the military because a powerful military means that states can defend their ultimate interests either in offensive or defensive tactics. In realism, the belief is that there is no overarching power that can be able to enforce global rules or punish the bad actions. Realism states that international organizations and law do not have any authority or power because they only exist as long as the states are able to accept them (Guzzini, 2004). Realists do not believe in moral behavior because they feel it has the ability to undermine a state’s potential to protect itself. Leaders themselves may choose to be moral, but they are not supposed to allow their moral concern to direct foreign policy.
One strong point of the realism theory is that it posits that states act in their own best interest. This is important because when states act to promote their highest individual interest, it means that the people within the state can feel secure because they know their best interests are taken care of at all times. In being able to pursue the interest of the state, the interest of the community are guaranteed (Williams, 2004). The other strong point of realism is that it seeks to pursue power because of the evident anarchy that exists in the world. By having power, it is able to defend itself from any potential threats that are likely to ...