A realist theory of peace*

Abstract

In ‘A Realist theory of peace’ Kōsaka Masataka argues that balance-of-power realism can be used as the basis for pursuing a durable peace. He attempts to bridge the gap between realists and idealists, accepting the goal of peace that idealists seek while asking idealists to recognize the importance of pursuing means rooted in the balance of power. He argues that the US-Japan alliance cannot suddenly be abolished, because to do so would upset the balance of power, thereby risking the very peace that idealists seek to make absolute. While Kōsaka criticizes idealists for ignoring means even while embracing their purpose, he also criticizes Japanese diplomats, ruling politicians and their academic supporters for being slaves to the status-quo rather than realists capable of promoting the national interest. Kōsaka argues that peace can be secured by taking concrete steps that help to stabilize the balance of power, specifically through reducing misperceptions and military tensions. He calls for normalizing relations with China and pursuing arms control on the Korean peninsula. He even backs the idealists' idea of a regional mutual non-aggression pact, because he observes that this would not require Japan to become neutral as the idealists advocate.