Structural Realism - International Relations (1/7)

Structural Realism

A theory in international relations that posits the structure of the international system, rather than human nature, explains state behavior.

Anarchic System

A system in which there is no central authority to enforce rules or provide security for states.

Security Competition

The rivalry between states to accumulate power and maintain security against potential aggressors.

Hegemon

A dominant state that has the most power in a regional or global context.

Parsimonious Theory

A theory that explains complex phenomena with a simple, straightforward approach, emphasizing simplicity and elegance in its assumptions and predictions, often referred to as 'Occam's Razor' in philosophy, whereby the simplest explanation is preferred over more complex ones.

Human Nature Realism

The perspective that human tendencies, such as a desire for power, drive conflicts in the international system.

Malign Intentions

Hostile or harmful intentions that one state may hold towards another, leading to insecurity.

Power Dynamics

The influence or control that states exert over one another based on their relative power.

Peer Competitors

States that have similar levels of power and pose a challenge to each other's influence.

Containment Strategy

Efforts taken by one state to prevent another from expanding its influence, especially in terms of military power.

Animus Dominandi

A term coined by Hans Morgenthau referring to the inherent drive for power within humans.

Cold War

A period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and the United States, characterized by a struggle for dominance.

Military Might

The capability of a state to conduct warfare and deter attackers through its armed forces.

Regional Dominance

The strategy of a state to exert influence or control over its neighboring states.