This Week We're Focused On Mainstream International Relation ✓ Solved

This Week Were Focused On The Mainstream International Relations Theo

This week we're focused on the mainstream International Relations theories of Realism, Liberalism, and Constructivism. After you read the attached file, please pick one theory and complete the steps below: 1. Define the theory in your own words- what are the main ideas? 2. What are the strong points of theory? What are the weak points? In other words, what events can the theory explain, and what can it not explain? 3. Use this theory to explain a current event in international relations. Discuss. 4. What are the weak points of your chosen theory and why? Be sure to define your terms and to support your answer with references. Instructions See attached folder for readings words excluding references, APA format, and a minimum of 3 references.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Analysis of International Relations Theories: Focus on Realism

International Relations (IR) theories provide critical frameworks for understanding the complex interactions among states and other actors on the global stage. Among the prominent mainstream theories—Realism, Liberalism, and Constructivism—Realism has historically played a dominant role in explaining international phenomena. This paper will focus on Realism, defining its core ideas, evaluating its strengths and weaknesses, applying it to current international events, and analyzing its limitations.

Definition of Realism

Realism is an IR theory rooted in the assumption that the international system is anarchic, meaning there is no overarching authority above states. States are considered the primary actors, and their actions are driven primarily by the desire to ensure their own survival through power maximization. Key ideas include the importance of national interest, the pursuit of power, and the inevitability of conflict due to competing interests. Realists believe that security dilemmas, balance of power, and strategic alliances are natural consequences of this anarchic environment.

Strong Points of Realism

Realism is valued for its pragmatic approach to international politics. It effectively explains the persistence of conflict, the behaviors of great powers, and the importance of military capabilities in state security. The theory’s focus on power dynamics provides clarity in understanding crises such as arms races or territorial disputes. Its emphasis on national interest and security interests allows policymakers to strategize effectively, especially in unpredictable environments. Additionally, realism's historical track record in explaining Cold War bipolarity and ongoing power struggles underscores its relevance.

Weak Points of Realism

Despite its strengths, realism faces criticism for its limitations. It tends to underestimate the role of international institutions, economic interdependence, and normative considerations that promote cooperation. It often assumes states are rational actors, which may not always be true, especially in cases of irrational leaders or sudden crises. Realism also struggles to explain instances of successful cooperation, such as the formation of NATO or international environmental agreements, which are motivations beyond mere power calculations. Furthermore, its state-centric focus overlooks non-state actors like multinational corporations or terrorist groups, which significantly influence global politics today.

Application of Realism to a Current Event

One relevant example of realism at work is the ongoing tension between the United States and China. Both powers are engaged in strategic competition characterized by military oversights, technological rivalry, and economic measures. Realist theory explains this as a power struggle where both states seek to maximize their influence and secure their national interests. The U.S. aims to maintain its global primacy, while China seeks regional dominance and greater influence in international institutions. The buildup of military capabilities in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait exemplifies a security dilemma driven by realist assumptions about power and survival.

Weak Points of Realism and Its Limitations

While realism effectively explains great power rivalries, it struggles to account for the increasing importance of transnational issues such as climate change, pandemics, and cyber security, which require multilateral cooperation. Its emphasis on conflict and competition can overlook opportunities for peace and mutual benefit. Additionally, the theory’s portrayal of states as purely rational actors dismisses the influence of domestic politics, ideology, and misperceptions that can lead to unexpected conflicts. In the case of the U.S.-China rivalry, economic interdependence and diplomatic efforts challenge the more conflict-centric assumptions of realism, revealing a need for integrated theoretical approaches.

Conclusion

Realism remains a vital framework for understanding the anarchic nature of international politics and the pursuit of power among states. Its practical insights illuminate many aspects of global affairs, especially military-security issues. However, its limitations necessitate complementing it with other theories that account for cooperation, normative factors, and non-state actors. A comprehensive understanding of international relations benefits from multiple perspectives, but realism’s emphasis on power dynamics ensures it remains central to the analysis of conflicts and strategic behavior in the international arena.

References

• Mearsheimer, J. J. (2001). The Tragedy of Great Power Politics. W.W. Norton & Company.
• Waltz, K. N. (1979). Theory of International Politics. McGraw-Hill.
• Armstrong, D. (2013). International Relations and the Problem of Power. Cambridge University Press.
• Kenneth N. Waltz, Theory of International Politics, McGraw-Hill, 1979.
• Jervis, R. (2017). Perception and Misperception in International Politics. Princeton University Press.