The Tragedy of Great Power Politics (book)

"The Tragedy of Great Power Politics" by John Mearsheimer argues that major nations, or great powers, vie for dominance to ensure their own security. Because power is scarce and states cannot fully trust others, they often compete aggressively, leading to insecurity and conflict. This perpetual struggle for power creates a cycle where peace is temporary, and conflict is inevitable—much like a tragic, ongoing struggle driven by self-interest and the desire to survive and influence globally. The book highlights the natural, often conflicting, pursuit of power among nations within the international system.