Realist Theory of International Relations: Origin, Scope, Critique

Abstract

Realist theory occupies a special place in the theoretical development of International Relations discipline. As the dominant theory of the discipline from mid1930s up until mid1980s, realism has often been dubbed as the theory of the International Relations because of its overwhelming influence on IR academia. In addition to controversial concepts it brought into IR discussions, realism has served the discipline by pioneering the study of international developments through conceptual analysis instead of traditional methods based on historical, legal, and philosophical studies. Although its various fundamental aspects (such as its conservative approach to world politics, emphasis on state and power, failure to define national interest convincingly, deterministic approach to international politics) have been criticized over the years from many perspectives, realist tradition has re- emerged time and again as the leading conceptual explanation of the discipline. Finally, despite all its exposed' weaknesses, the realist theory of IR, with its clear and simple explanations, is still the most widely used approach in the area.

Keywords

Theory, Realism, Neo-Realism, National Interest, Power

Citation

Aydın, Mustafa, “Realist Theory of International Relations: Origin, Scope, Critique”, International Relations, Volume 1, Issue 1 (Spring 2004), pp. 33-60.

Affiliations

• Mustafa Aydın, Assoc. Prof. Dr., Ankara University, Faculty of Political Sciences, Department of International Relations