The Waltzian Framework

The Waltzian Framework, developed by Kenneth Waltz, is a way of understanding how countries behave in the international system. It emphasizes the importance of the structure of the international environment rather than individual leaders or specific events. The framework suggests that because there is no higher authority than states and power is distributed among them, they act mainly to ensure their own security. This creates a system of self-help where states balance each other, leading to patterns like alliances and rivalry. In essence, the framework explains global stability and conflict based on the distribution of power among nations.