Realism vs. Liberalism: Which theory best explains the current world affairs? Aikerim Daurenbayeva

Realism vs. Liberalism  Laying out the basics  Realism: The traditional path that emphasizes the centrality of the state on the world stage and the pursuit of national self- interest above all else.  Liberalism: The alternative path that emphasizes a more cooperative, globalist approach and the important role non- state actors and instituions representing individuals or groups interests on the world stage.

Realism and the Nature of Politics  Influence of Thomas Hobbes and Hans Morgenthau: Conflict is inevitable  Largely pessimistic: Humans are aggressive and self-serving, and they are unlikely to change

Liberalism and the Nature of Politics  Influence of Jean-Jacques Rousseau: Humans join civil societies and cooperate to achieve mutual benefits.  Human beings are not always evil and can learn

The Roles of Power and Principles: Realism–an emphasis on power  Power-based perspective–survival of the most powerful  Emphasizes pragmatic, self-help policy prescriptions  ‘Might makes right’ Liberalism–an emphasis on principles  Based on cooperative and ethical standards  Seeks to create policy norms of justice and peace

Prospects for Competition and Cooperation Realism–realpolitik approach  Place national interest first in international politics  Practice balance-of-power politics  Achieve peace through strength Liberalism–globalist approach  Power is not the essence of international relations  Power politics is futile and destructive  Peace is achieved through cooperative relations  Willingness to surrender some sovereignty to international structures promoting cooperation

Assessing Reality: Realism and Liberalism  Comparing the ability of realism or liberalism to explain world history  Both realism and liberalism influence current policy  Competition has dominated world history  Realpolitik is the order of the day

Thank you for attention!