Realism: International Relations Theory

In a rapidly evolving world of global politics, possessing an understanding and awareness of what’s happening beyond borders is critical. What causes the actions of nations? What drives the complex dynamics of international relations? There are various lenses through which international relations can be analysed. One such lens is the realism theory. This geopolitics course explores the world of international relations by examining the key principles of realism.

We introduce you to realism as an international relation theory and examine Thucydides' brilliant account of the Peloponnesian War to demonstrate its relevance to modern realism. We then move on to Niccolo Machiavelli and explore his moralised perspective on governance while discussing its relationship to realism. The course then examines the perspective of English philosopher Thomas Hobbes and his book ‘Leviathan’ on realism, which lays out his theories about the ‘state of nature’. We explain why the text is widely considered the foundation of modern structural realism.

Next, we’ll examine Hans Morgenthau’s views on classical realism and his ideas about human nature. We discuss Kenneth Waltz’s neorealism, which explains international relations through a systemic level of governance and the actions of the State. Finally, we discuss John Mearsheimer’s ‘offensive realism’ and his assertion that nations want to pursue power at any cost. This geopolitics course is open to all learners and fosters critical thinking and analysis to help you analyse and participate in international affairs as a wise and informed global citizen. Sign up to explore the hard-nosed world of foreign policy and learn how to understand the world as it is, not as it should be.