Unit 3

Question 1

Which English philosopher from the 17th century do people connect with realist thinking?

Answer 1

Thomas Hobbes

Question 2

Name two classical realists?

Answer 2

Hans Morgenthau and Henry Kissinger

Question 3

Name four ideas that are central to most realist writing.

Answer 3

1 state centrism
2 the importance of anarchy
3 the imperative of survival through self-help
4 the unchanging character of international relations

Question 4

What is a parsimonious theory?

Answer 4

A theory proceeding from a limited number of assumptions to a few important conclusions

Question 5

How do states achieve security and survival domestically?

Answer 5

Security of individuals achieved by authority of the state, which provides security within its borders.

Question 6

How do states achieve security and survival internationally?

Answer 6

No single authority as domestically. It depends on the states’ power, sometimes in alliances with other states, sometimes in its military.

Question 7

If structure of international system bases on balance, why are great powers very important?

Answer 7

Due to the capacity of great powers. The greater the power, the more capable they are and the more influence and power they have through actions, alliances and power balancing to change the structure of the system

Question 8

What is the role of non-state actors in an international order?

Answer 8

For realists: Non-state actors are secondary. They may have some influence if they affect the capabilities of states Waltz: leading companies come and go and sometimes disappear - something moderns state rarely do.

Question 9

What is the difference between Waltz and Mearsheimer’s view of IR?

Answer 9

Waltz: defensive realism -> states’ overriding goal is security, seeking power is therefore means to an end

Mearsheimer: offensive realism -> states can never be satisfied with power, intentions of other states are always uncertain and potentially threatening