This document outlines the primary theories of International Relations with the big idea, key concepts, arguments for and against as well as corresponding summaries to each theory. The notes are structured to help simplify complex terms and assist in memorisation, particularly suited to revision fo...
The Big Idea Arguments For
Realists come to the conclusion that States will accumulate Use of Force Under the Condition of Anarchy
power to protect their interests in an anarchic environment. Any State can use force to get what it wants
wants, creating uncertainty and insecurity for
Explains Persistence of War
Offers a simple and clear theory for the persis
Key Thinkers
China: Debt Traps, Soft Power and Multipolar
E.H Carr China’s economic growth and military expansio
Hans Morgenthau to shift the international system from a unipo
bipolar or multipolar world. Thucydides Trap po
Key Concepts
Arguments Against
Realist theories consider States as the main actors
Context of Specific Events
Realism argues that anarchy is the defining feature of
Realism is not particularly well equipped to ex
international politics with no central authority
The Big Idea Arguments For
Classical Realists argue that States are self-interested and Thucydides Trap
pursue power and security at one another's expense. Considered a "Classical Realist" - the Thucydide
why a rising power will inevitably lead to insecu
Anarchic World System
Realism's explanation of Anarchy and self-inte
Key Quote explain the persistence of war, especially when
context with empirical evidence. In multipolar s
E.H Carr
tends to be more frequent when compared to
Hans Morgenthau
bipolar world systems.
Key Concepts
Arguments Against
Classical Realist Theories are comprised of a number of key
Human Progress
concepts that help differentiate from other Realism strands:
Classical Realism has a very pessimistic attitu
The Big Idea Arguments For
Structural Realists focus on the international structure of Anarchy and a Plurality of States
anarchy as the source of a persistent war between states No existence of a higher authority, anarchy is
predominant world system.
Security Dilemma: Russia & Ukraine
Ukrainian claims of self-defence and fears of
Key Quote expansionism were used as one contributing fa
Russian and Ukraine conflict.
"In anarchy, there is no automatic harmony." - Keneth Waltz
(2013) / John Mearsheimer Revisionist States: China
Is China looking to change the International O
Key Concepts
Arguments Against
The International Structure of Anarchy is the source of a
Smaller States
persistent war between States
Structural Realism often neglects the role of S
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