Realism Vs Liberalism Analysis

As the international relations scene began to quickly emerge throughout the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries, two main theories came on to the world stage that would dominate the rest. The first theory, many politicians argue is the most dominate, is known as Realism (Baylis, Smith, Owens, 101). The second main theory that emerged in international relations was Liberalism. Despite their wide popularity among many states, these two theories compete head to head when it comes to each of their ideologies regarding states, governmental/nongovernmental organizations, and cooperation around the world. With this in mind, the Realism and Liberalism theories vary drastically when it comes to their trust in other countries, their ideologies/norms, …show more content…
They feel the need to protect themselves from the other states, which relates to Mearsheimer’s second assumption. He argues that all states have some offensive military capabilities (Mearsheimer, 30). Because of this, states that operate under the realist theory are always trying to stay one step ahead of the other states. This paranoia that these states develop often time results in an ideology known as defensive realism. For example, if state A finds out state B has 10 nuclear warheads, states A is going to want at least 11 nuclear warheads to stay one step ahead of state B. The lack of trust that develops between states supports Mearsheimer’s third assumption. It states that many states are simply unaware of what each other are doing, or plan to do, so a partnership is never formed. For example, as given in class, State B may be your friend today, but tomorrow State B may turn its back on …show more content…
For example, Liberals have free elections. Under this set of rules, you as in individual have a governing body that represents what you want. Your representatives are supposed to support what is in your best interest. Often time Democracy is associated with Liberalism. This keeps states from living under a Dictatorships and it gives people a voice. Once these basic human right, under Liberalism, are established, land ownership and the economy begin to heavily be influenced by the people (Baylis, Smith, Owens, 120). For example, people can own property which allows them to operate businesses. Once production is in full swing, it brings in trade, wages, and workers; this allows a market to develop. Under Liberalism a free market is a main concept. This market operates not only inside the state, but internationally as