Jacques Rousseaus Contributions to Realist Thought Discussion
Chapter 8 CPA 7
- Define raison d’état (25 words or less).
- What are Jacques Rousseau’s contributions to realist thought?
- What are the main differences between classical, structural, and neo-classical realism?
- Define ‘balance of power’ (40 words or less).
- What is the significance of the Peloponnesian War for the study of international relations?
- What is ‘offensive realism’?
- Why is neorealism also called ‘structural realism’?
- Define the ‘ethic of responsibility’ (25 words or less).
- What are the three pillars of essential realism?
- What makes ‘neo-classical realism’ ‘neo’?
- What, in your view, is the most devastating critique of realism?
- If state sovereignty is under threat, does realism become less viable?
- What are the key concepts of Machiavelli’s theory for international relations
- What does the Melian dialogue reveal about realism? How have international relations changed since the days of Athens and Sparta and how has it not?
- Do you think that states truly exist in a state of anarchy? Include a discussion of security, self-help, and statism in your answer.
- How does Kenneth Waltz’s theory of neorealism or structural realism differ from earlier strains of realist thinking? What are its strengths and weaknesses?
Raison d’état: The principle of prioritizing the state’s interests and stability over individual rights or moral values.
Jean-Jacques Rousseaus contributions to realist thought include his emphasis on power dynamics, critique of idealistic views of human nature, and exploration of the state’s pursuit of self-interest.
Classical realism focuses on human nature, power, and the struggle for survival; structural realism emphasizes the impact of the international system’s structure; neo-classical realism combines both individual and structural factors.
The balance of power refers to a distribution of power among states to prevent any single state from dominating others and maintain stability in the international system.
The Peloponnesian War highlights themes such as power, alliances, war, and the impact of changing power dynamics, providing valuable insights into the study of international relations.
Offensive realism, proposed by John Mearsheimer, argues that states are driven by the pursuit of hegemony and security, emphasizing the aggressive and power-seeking nature of states in the international system.
