The Realist School of Thought

The Realist School of Thought is a perspective in international relations that emphasizes the competitive and conflictual nature of world politics. Realists believe that countries act primarily in their own self-interest, prioritizing power and security over ideals like morality or cooperation. They view the international system as anarchic, meaning there’s no overarching authority to enforce rules, leading states to rely on their own capabilities. Realism suggests that power dynamics shape interactions, and understanding this can help explain global events and decisions made by nations.