Key differences between liberals and realists.

Analyse the key differences between liberal and realist theory.

Introduction

Realist theory: A perspective that emphasises power, state sovereignty, and the inevitability of conflict in an anarchic international system.

Liberal theory: A perspective that highlights cooperation, interdependence, and the potential for peace through institutions, democracy, and shared values.

Point: Liberal and realist theories differ fundamentally in their assumptions about human nature, shaping their overall perspectives on global politics.

Explanation: Realists, drawing on conservative Hobbes, view humans as inherently selfish and power-seeking, leading to a world dominated by conflict and competition. Liberals, influenced by liberal Locke, argue that humans are capable of reason and cooperation, making progress and peace achievable through shared goals.

Examples:

• Realists: The security dilemma, where mistrust leads to arms races, exemplified by the Cold War.

• Liberals: The establishment of the UN, driven by the belief in human rationality and the potential for cooperation.

Analysis: While realists see conflict as inevitable due to human selfishness, liberals emphasise the capacity for collaboration through institutions and mutual interests.

Link: These contrasting views on human nature form the foundation of the broader theoretical differences.

Point: Realists prioritise power politics and state sovereignty, while liberals focus on interdependence and the role of non-state actors.

Explanation: Realists argue that states operate in an anarchic system where power is the primary currency for survival. Liberals, however, highlight economic interdependence, international law, and global governance as key to reducing the importance of power politics.

Examples:

• Realists: The balance of power strategy, such as NATO countering Soviet influence during the Cold War.

• Liberals: The EU's integration, pooling sovereignty to achieve collective peace and prosperity.

Analysis: Realists maintain a state-centric approach, whereas liberals see the potential for multilateralism and cooperation to transcend power struggles.

Link: This divergence illustrates their differing priorities: realism's focus on survival and liberalism's emphasis on collaboration.

Point: Realist and liberal theories offer contrasting perspectives on the inevitability of conflict versus the potential for cooperation.

Explanation: Realists argue that anarchy and the pursuit of power make conflict a permanent feature of international relations. Liberals believe that democracy, institutions, and economic interdependence create conditions for cooperation and peace.

Examples:

• Realists: The realist explanation of the arms race during the Cold War as a natural outcome of an anarchic system.

• Liberals: The democratic peace theory, suggesting that democratic states are less likely to go to war with one another.

Analysis: Realists' skepticism about long-term peace contrasts with liberals' optimism about the transformative power of international norms and systems.

Link: These differences in outlook reflect their fundamentally distinct approaches to understanding and addressing global challenges.