Realism

Realism is a theory of International Relations that stresses the competitive and conflict-ridden nature of the anarchic state system. Realists believe that power and self- interest often lead to ethical norms amongst states being neglected.The roots of Realism can be traced as far back as Thucydides (460 - 411 B.C.E) and his explanation of the Peloponnesian War, as well as to Machiavelli (1469 - 1527) who challenged the well-established concept of moral tradition in politics. Usually contrasted with Idealism or Liberalism, which tend to emphasize cooperation, realism encompasses a variety of other approaches and claims a very long theoretical tradition.

External Links and References

• Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, 'Political Realism in International Relations'

• Realism and International Relations, Jack Donnelly, Cambridge University Press, 2002

• [Wolfrum, R. (Ed.) Max Planck Encyclopedia of Public International Law |Anne-Marie Slaughter, published in Wolfrum, R. (Ed.), 'Max Planck Encyclopedia of Public International Law', Oxford Univeristy Press, 2011 (See B, Realism)]

• John J Mearsheimer, 'Realism, the Real World and the Academy', 2002