This book recovers the history of realist theorization on nationalism and the nation-state. Presented in a sequence of snapshots and illustrated by examples drawn from the foreign policy of great powers, this history is represented by four key realist thinkers. It uses the centrality of power in realism as a starting point to claim, contrary to conventional wisdom about realism, that for realists the state is better understood not as a political unit outside history but rather as a manifestation of power unfixed in time. It also claims that the process of gradual impoverishment of the concept of power from classical to structural realism had profound implications for realism, as what the latter gained in parsimony it lost in analytical purchase. As a result, elaborate understandings of nationalism and its relation to the state are replaced by one-dimensional approaches. In order to offer meaningful engagement with foreign policy, neorealists often have to resort to the recovery of some of the complexity of classical realist accounts.

In The Atlantic Realists, intellectual historian Matthew Specter offers a boldly revisionist interpretation of "realism," a prevalent stance in post-WWII US foreign policy and public discourse and the dominant international relations theory during the Cold War. Challenging the common view of realism as a set of universally binding truths about international affairs, Specter argues that its major features emerged from a century-long dialogue between American and German intellectuals beginning in the late nineteenth century. Specter uncovers an "Atlantic realist" tradition of reflection on the prerogatives of empire and the nature of power politics conditioned by fin de siècle imperial competition, two world wars, the Holocaust, and the Cold War. Focusing on key figures in the evolution of realist thought, including Carl Schmitt, Hans Morgenthau, and Wilhelm Grewe, this book traces the development of the realist worldview over a century, dismantling myths about the national interest, Realpolitik, and the "art" of statesmanship.

1. The realist tradition

Forfatterens mål med denne bog er: 1) Analyse af de gældende teorier for international politik og hvad der heri er lagt størst vægt på. 2) Konstruktion af en teori for international politik som kan kan råde bod på de mangler, der er i de nu gældende. 3) Afprøvning af den rekonstruerede teori på faktiske hændelsesforløb.

Discover the Power Dynamics of Global Politics with "What is Realism in International Relations" Dive into the compelling world of international relations through the lens of Realism, a dominant school of thought that reveals the relentless competition among self-interested states. This comprehensive guide unpacks how these rational actors navigate an anarchic global system, driven by power, national interests, and the quest for security. What You'll Gain Unlock valuable insights and deepen your understanding with detailed explorations of key topics, including: Realism in International Relations: Understand the foundational principles of Realism. Neorealism: Explore the evolution and impact of Neorealism in international politics. Realpolitik: Learn about the practical application of power politics. International Relations: Grasp the broad field and its various theories. National Interest: Delve into the concept that drives state behavior. Kenneth Waltz: Discover the contributions of one of the most influential Realist thinkers. Security Dilemma: Analyze the paradox where actions taken by states to increase security can lead to greater insecurity. Regime Theory: Study the impact of international norms and rules. International Security: Understand the complex dynamics that ensure state survival. This book also addresses the most pressing questions about Realism in international relations, providing clear and concise answers that enhance your knowledge and perspective. Who Should Read This Book Whether you are a professional in the field, an undergraduate or graduate student, an enthusiast, a hobbyist, or someone looking to expand your knowledge beyond the basics, this book is your essential guide to Realism in International Relations. Equip yourself with the theories and insights that shape our understanding of global power dynamics and state behavior. Get Your Copy Today and Master the Core Principles of Realism in International Relations!

Essay from the year 2023 in the subject Politics - Political Theory and the History of Ideas Journal, grade: B+, Monash University Melbourne, course: International Relations, language: English, abstract: This essay evaluates the two schools of thought to determine which one best explains the state of global politics. It is argued that realism is a more practical representation of the world politics than liberalism as evidenced by global power struggles, wars, isolationism, and ineffective international organizations. International relations or global politics is characterized by different schools of thought, including realism and liberalism. Basically, realist thought in global politics emphasizes the view that nation-states should pursue unitary political objectives such as power and influence to protect national interest. To realists, the world is a harsh place and application of moral standards limits leaders to do what is logically in the interest of the nation. As such, non-state actors are viewed as antagonistic to the wellbeing of the nation and should be given a wide berth. Contrastingly, liberalism advocates for international cooperation in the interest of collective benefits. Liberalists oppose the use of military power, which they claim is an outdated realist thought.

Challenges the assumption of the rationality of foreign policy makers in international relations, showing how leaders systematically vary in the rationality of their thinking.