Theories of Alliances

Theories of alliances explore why countries come together to form partnerships for mutual benefit. Common theories include realism, which suggests alliances are formed for security against threats; liberalism, which emphasizes economic ties and shared values; and constructivism, which considers how social identity and norms influence alliances. These frameworks help explain how nations strategize their relationships to achieve goals like defense, trade, or political influence, adapting to changing global dynamics. Overall, alliances are seen as tools for enhancing power and stability in a complex international landscape.