Traditional Theories of International Relations

Abstract

International relations theories attempt to explain and extrapolate possible outcomes with regard to policy issues, foreign policy decisions, war propensity and animosity between states as well as the structure of the international system. The relevance of the major international relations theories has been a matter of much debate throughout the last 25 years, with the discourse having been divided mainly between (neo)liberal and (neo)realist thought. Identifying the main attributes of these theories as well as the key thinkers in this milieu will be the primary aim of this chapter. The preeminent inference of realist theory is that violent conflict is inevitable as states seek to maximize their power and minimize the risks associated with the international environment. Liberal scholars emphasize the importance of reason, liberty, and progress, and see these attributes as mutually beneficial concerning all states. They maintain that individual freedom leads to rational choices, that rational decisions preserve freedom, and that, ultimately, this cycle is a contributing factor to the achievement of progress in international relations. The concept of structural realism postulates that state behavior is determined by the structure of the international system and that the anarchic structure of this system makes countries more prone to seek relative gains to ensure their survival. Constructivism is predicated on the assumption that all social underpinnings are constructed rather than preordained concomitants of human nature or international politics. Constructivists draw attention to the salience of norms and ideas in international relations.