"Anarchic System Of States"

An "anarchic system of states" is a concept frequently used in international relations and

political theory to describe the fundamental nature of the global political order. This concept
is often associated with the realist school of thought in international relations theory. Here's
what it entails:

❖ Lack of Central Authority: In an anarchic system of states, there is no

overarching, centralised authority or world government that governs or enforces rules
on the behaviour of sovereign states. Unlike within a domestic system, where a
government has a monopoly on the use of force, there is no such entity at the global
level.
❖ Sovereign States: States in this system are considered sovereign entities,
meaning they have the ultimate authority within their own borders and are free to
make their own decisions without external interference.
❖ Self-Help System: Given the absence of a central authority, states must rely on
themselves (self-help) for their security, protection of their interests, and the pursuit of
their goals. This often involves the maintenance of military capabilities, alliances, and
strategies to defend their sovereignty and interests.

❖ Competition and Conflict: The anarchy of the international system leads to

competition among states for power, resources, and security. Conflict and
competition are seen as inherent features of this system, as there is no higher
authority to adjudicate disputes or enforce agreements.

❖ Balance of Power: States often seek to maintain a balance of power to prevent

any single state from dominating the system. This balance can lead to the formation
of alliances, treaties, and coalitions to counter the influence or potential aggression of
powerful states.

❖ Sovereign Equality: All states, regardless of their size or power, are

considered equal in terms of their sovereignty within the international system. This
principle of sovereign equality is enshrined in international law and the United
Nations Charter.

The concept of an anarchic system of states provides the theoretical foundation for various
theories and approaches to international relations, including realism, which emphasises the
role of power and self-interest in shaping state behaviour. It contrasts with other
perspectives, such as liberalism, which place more emphasis on international institutions,
cooperation, and the potential for global governance.