Realism and liberalism are two major theories in international relations that have significantly shaped the way states interact with one another and understand the world around them. While both approaches have their own unique perspectives on international relations, they also have some important differences that set them apart.
Realism is a theory that emphasizes the role of power and national interest in shaping international relations. Realists argue that states are motivated by self-interest and will use any means necessary to achieve their goals, including military force and economic coercion. They view the international system as a competitive and anarchy, where states must fend for themselves and protect their own interests.
Liberalism, on the other hand, is a theory that emphasizes cooperation and the role of international institutions in shaping international relations. Liberalists argue that states can and should work together to achieve common goals, such as promoting global peace and prosperity. They view the international system as a community of states that can and should work together to address common challenges.
One key difference between realism and liberalism is their understanding of human nature. Realists tend to view humans as inherently selfish and self-interested, while liberalists view humans as capable of cooperation and altruism. This difference in understanding of human nature leads to different predictions about how states will behave in the international system. Realists expect states to act in their own self-interest and pursue power and security at all costs, while liberalists believe that states can and should work together to address common challenges.
Another key difference is the role of international institutions. Realists tend to be skeptical of international institutions, arguing that they are ineffective in shaping international relations and often serve as tools for powerful states to pursue their own interests. Liberalists, on the other hand, view international institutions as important tools for promoting cooperation and resolving disputes peacefully.
Despite these differences, realism and liberalism do share some common ground. Both approaches recognize the role of power and national interest in shaping international relations, and both recognize the importance of maintaining a balance of power to avoid conflicts. However, they differ in their approaches to achieving this balance and their understanding of the role of international institutions in shaping international relations.
In conclusion, realism and liberalism are two major theories in international relations that offer different perspectives on how states interact with one another and understand the world around them. While they share some common ground, they also have significant differences in their understanding of human nature, the role of international institutions, and the role of power and national interest in shaping international relations.