REALISM ACCORDING TO

THUCYDIDES

Thucydides sees international relations as anarchic, inherently war-prone and

competitive.

When realists try to tease out general patterns from Thucydides that guide our understanding of
human behaviour, they attract eye-rolling frustration.

In your understanding of IR, is it naturally anarchic and war-prone?

CASE OF REALISM IN WORLD

POLITICS

Thucydidean insight into the US-China antagonism, identifying a pattern of power-transition

crisis echoing the power-shift that Thucydides said was the ‘truest cause’ of war between Athens
and Sparta.

IMMANUEL
KANT

Immanuel Kant is a German philosopher whose comprehensive and systematic work in

epistemology (the theory of knowledge).

Kant was one of the foremost thinkers of the Enlightenment and arguably one of the greatest
philosophers of all time.

In IR, Kant advocated a cosmopolitan community-building perspective of peace and

international relations.

Kant supports a Republican Type of Government.

Cosmopolitanism is understood as the ultimate, comprehensive level of law, at which basis

stays the importance and role played by the subject understood as an active citizen.

The freedom of actions and will of humans, which are human actions, like every other natural event are
determined by universal laws.

Kant highlights of immense relevance for today's thought on the most pressing matters concerning
international law.
KANT’S REBUTTAL OF
LIBERALISM

Kant's political views translate into a vision of international relations that cannot be associated with the
democratic and neoliberal theories of peace.

Kant is described as liberal for its presumption of limits on the state based on the social contract
as a regulative matter.

KANT’S REBUTTAL OF
LIBERALISM

Kant's political views translate into a vision of international relations that cannot be associated with the
democratic and neoliberal theories of peace.

Kant is described as liberal for its presumption of limits on the state based on the social contract
as a regulative matter.

JEAN JACQUES
ROSSEAU

Jean Jacques-Rosseau is a Swiss-born philosopher, writer, and political theorist whose

treatises and novels inspired the leaders of the French Revolution and the Romantic generation.

Rousseau was the least academic of modern philosophers and in many ways was the most
influential.

His thought marked the end of the European Enlightenment (the “Age of Reason”).

Rosseau is a Democractic-Realist.

LIBERALISM ACCORDING TO
ROSSEAU

Rousseau helped to open new doors to the study of political science by influencing the
international aspect of this discipline.

Knowledge and understanding of society's political roots are critical, as it help one to
comprehend current trends in international relations.

Rosseau supports that Democracy is becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide, and provides a
clear understanding of contemporary states to function effectively as international actors.

ROSSEAU VIS-A-VIS
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
THEORY

Generally speaking, Rousseau had a pessimistic conception of international relations.

He viewed international society as being in a permanent state of insecurity and mutual

antagonism, or more explicitly, a constant state of war.

War arose from the relationship between states, not between individuals.

“Man is naturally peaceful and timid, and becomes a soldier only through the influence of his society.”

ROSSEAU VIS-A-VIS
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
THEORY

Generally speaking, Rousseau had a pessimistic conception of international relations.

He viewed international society as being in a permanent state of insecurity and mutual

antagonism, or more explicitly, a constant state of war.

War arose from the relationship between states, not between individuals.

“Man is naturally peaceful and timid, and becomes a soldier only through the influence of his society.”

SOCIAL CONTRACT THEORY

“Man is born free, and he is everywhere in chains”

People could only experience true freedom if they lived in a civil society that ensured the rights and
well-being of its citizens.

Rosseau believes that man was born basically good, and the idea is that society is what corrupts
mankind.

Adam Smith is a Scottish social philosopher and political economist, instrumental in

the rise of classical liberalism.

He established the first comprehensive system of political economy.

He contributed economic writings that constitute only the capstone to an overarching view of
political and social evolution.

Adam Smith is a Scottish social philosopher and political economist, instrumental in

the rise of classical liberalism.

He established the first comprehensive system of political economy.

He contributed economic writings that constitute only the capstone to an overarching view of
political and social evolution.

CLASSICAL
LIBERALISM
ACCORDING TO
SMITH

In true liberal fashion, Adam Smith commenced his analysis of international politics with his view on
human nature.

He believed that people are bound to quarrel and fight and are often guided by emotion rather than
reason.

There should be an accomplished interplay of a number of ‘international institutions’ in order

to achieve economic and political stability.

DIPLOMACY

It is important for states to keep good relations and good communications with one
another.

Smith emphasizes that the immunity of ambassadors should be sacred, although they should
be imprisoned if they conspire against their host countries. Despite their political usefulness, their
main task is commercial, through the protection of trade and other economic interests.

Diplomats also have a crucial role to play in maintaining the balance of power. This balance
allows groups of states to make arrangements and alliances (often through treaties) to militarily
balance each other.

Realism is a school of thought that emphasizes the competitive and conflictual side of
international relations.

Realism’s roots are often said to be found in some of humankind’s earliest historical writings,
particularly Thucydides’ history of the Peloponnesian War, which raged between 431
and 404 BCE.

The assumption of realism is that the nation-state (usually abbreviated to ‘state’) is the
principal actor in international relations.

Other actors exist such as individuals and organizations, but their power is limited.

The state is a unitary actor. National interests, especially in times of war, lead the state to speak
and act with one voice.

Decision-makers are rational actors in the sense that rational decision-making leads to the pursuit
of the national interest.

Taking actions that would make your state weak or vulnerable would not be rational.

Liberalism is a defining feature of modern democracy, illustrated by the prevalence of the

term ‘liberal democracy’ as a way to describe countries with free and fair elections, rule of law
and protected civil liberties.
Liberalism contains a variety of concepts and arguments about how institutions, behaviours
and economic connections contain and mitigate the violent power of states.

Places consideration of citizens and international organizations.

ASSUMPTIONS OF
LIBERALISM

Liberalism is based on the moral argument that ensuring the right of an individual person to life,
liberty and property is the highest goal of government.

A political system characterised by unchecked power, such as a monarchy or a dictatorship

cannot protect the life and liberty of its citizens.

The main concern of liberalism is to construct institutions that protect individual freedom by
limiting and checking political power.

Constructivism’s arrival in IR is often associated with the end of the Cold War, an event that
traditional theories such as realism and liberalism failed to account function.

Constructivism accounts for this issue by arguing that the social world is of our making.

Actors (usually powerful ones, like leaders and influential citizens) continually shape and sometimes
reshape the very nature of international relations through their actions and interactions.

Certainly, let's delve into realism and constructivism in the context of North Korea's nuclearization and its approach to borders
and lands.
Realism:
Definition: Realism is a school of thought in international relations that emphasizes the role of power, national interest, and
state security. Realist theories, including classical realism and neorealism, suggest that states act in their self-interest and seek to
maximize their power in an anarchic international system.
Application to North Korea: North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons can be analyzed through a realist lens:

Security Concerns:

Realism would argue that states are primarily concerned with survival and security. North Korea, feeling threatened by the
presence of U.S. forces in the region and historical conflicts with South Korea, may see nuclear weapons as a means to enhance
its security and deter potential adversaries.

Deterrence:

Realist deterrence theory suggests that possessing nuclear weapons can deter other states from taking aggressive actions. In
North Korea's case, the regime may believe that having nuclear capabilities strengthens its deterrent posture, discouraging
intervention from external actors.

Balancing Power:

Realism emphasizes the balance of power in international relations. North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons could be viewed
as an attempt to alter the regional balance of power, especially in relation to South Korea and the United States, and assert its
sovereignty.
Example: The realist perspective would argue that North Korea's nuclearization is driven by a rational calculation of power and
security. The historical context of the Korean War, the presence of U.S. military forces in South Korea, and the desire for regime
survival all contribute to North Korea's realist-driven pursuit of nuclear weapons.
Constructivism:
Definition: Constructivism is a theoretical framework that emphasizes the role of ideas, norms, and identity in shaping state
behavior. Unlike realism, constructivism suggests that state actions are not solely driven by material interests but are also
influenced by shared beliefs and social context.
Application to North Korea: Constructivism offers insights into North Korea's behavior by looking at the impact of ideas and
identity:

National Identity:
Constructivism would argue that North Korea's national identity, shaped by its history and the cult of personality around its
leaders, plays a significant role in its actions. The pursuit of nuclear weapons may be linked to a desire for status, recognition,
and the assertion of national pride.

Norms and Identity:

Constructivism suggests that states act based on perceived norms and identities within the international system. North Korea,
isolated and often condemned by the international community, may see nuclear weapons as a way to gain respect and
recognition, challenging the norms set by the global community.

Ideas and Perceptions:

Constructivism emphasizes the importance of how states perceive threats and opportunities. North Korea's leadership may view
nuclear weapons as a symbol of strength and a tool for preserving their unique political and social system.
Example: A constructivist analysis would highlight how North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons is influenced by its national
identity and the desire for recognition. The regime, facing international isolation and sanctions, seeks to shape global
perceptions and secure its status through the acquisition of nuclear capabilities.
In summary, while realism provides a framework to understand North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons in terms of power and
security, constructivism adds nuance by highlighting the role of identity, norms, and ideas in shaping the country's behavior on
the international stage. The combination of these perspectives provides a more comprehensive understanding of North Korea's
complex motivations.

Thucydides was an ancient Greek historian and author of "History of the Peloponnesian War," a work that provides a detailed
account of the conflict between Athens and Sparta from 431 to 404 BCE. Thucydides is often considered one of the earliest
realist thinkers in international relations, and his writings emphasize the role of power, fear, and self-interest in shaping the
behavior of states.
Thucydides' Beliefs and Theory:

The Melian Dialogue:

One of the key passages in Thucydides' work is the Melian Dialogue, where the powerful Athenian state justifies its actions to
the smaller city-state of Melos. In this dialogue, the Athenians argue that power and self-interest govern international relations,
asserting that the strong do what they can, and the weak suffer what they must.

Power and Fear:

Thucydides identifies power as a primary motivating factor in international politics. States pursue power to secure their survival
and advance their interests. The fear of potential adversaries, combined with the pursuit of self-interest, drives states to take
actions that may include military conflicts and the acquisition of strategic advantages.

Human Nature:

Thucydides explores the darker aspects of human nature in the context of conflict. He describes how the pressures of war can
lead to the erosion of moral and ethical considerations, as states prioritize survival and strategic advantage.
Why Thucydides May Be Associated with North Korea's Ideologies:

Security Dilemma:

Thucydides' insights into the security dilemma, where one state's actions to enhance its security may be perceived as a threat by
others, could be applied to North Korea. The regime may argue that its pursuit of nuclear weapons is a response to perceived
threats, mirroring Thucydides' realist perspective.

Power Politics:

Thucydides' emphasis on power politics aligns with North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons as a means to enhance its security
and strengthen its position in the region. The regime may see nuclear capabilities as essential for deterring potential adversaries.

Self-Interest and Survival:

Thucydides' portrayal of states acting in their self-interest for survival may resonate with North Korea's pursuit of nuclear
weapons as a tool to ensure the regime's survival and protect its interests in the face of perceived external threats.
Example:
Suppose North Korea's leadership justifies its nuclearization based on Thucydides' realist principles:

Narrative:

North Korea could argue that, like powerful states in Thucydides' writings, it faces a challenging security environment with
powerful adversaries, and the pursuit of nuclear weapons is a rational response to ensure its survival.

Security and Deterrence:

The regime might use Thucydides' insights to justify the possession of nuclear weapons as a means to deter potential
interventions or hostile actions from other states, similar to how Athens justified its actions in the Melian Dialogue.
It's important to note that while Thucydides' theories can be applied to analyze certain aspects of international relations, he did
not explicitly address contemporary issues like nuclear proliferation or the specific circumstances of states like North Korea.
Interpretations of Thucydides' writings are subject to various perspectives, and applying his ideas to modern contexts involves
some degree of extrapolation and interpretation.

While there are differences in historical context, political systems, and geopolitical dynamics between the Peloponnesian War
and North Korea's situation, we can draw some broad conceptual connections between the two. It's important to approach such
comparisons with caution, recognizing the uniqueness of each historical period. Here are some points of connection:
Power Dynamics and Hegemony:

Peloponnesian War:

The Peloponnesian War was, in part, a struggle for hegemony and power in ancient Greece. Athens, a rising maritime power,
sought to expand its influence, leading to conflicts with the established power of Sparta and its allies.

North Korea's Nuclearization:

North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons is often framed as a response to perceived threats and as a means to establish its
position in the region. It reflects a desire for a certain level of strategic autonomy and a counterbalance to the power dynamics
involving neighboring states and global powers.
Security and Territorial Integrity:

Peloponnesian War:

Security concerns and fears of domination were central to the Peloponnesian War. City-states sought to protect their territories
and independence, leading to alliances and conflicts.

North Korea's Borders and Lands:

North Korea emphasizes the need for a strong defense to protect its borders and maintain territorial integrity. The pursuit of
nuclear weapons is presented as a deterrent against potential external aggression, echoing concerns about sovereignty seen in
the ancient Greek world.
Thucydides' Security Dilemma:

Peloponnesian War:

Thucydides' concept of the security dilemma, where one state's actions to enhance security are seen as a threat by others, is
reflected in the Peloponnesian War. The fear of potential aggression contributed to a cycle of military buildup.

North Korea's Security Dilemma:

North Korea's pursuit of nuclear weapons is often explained as a response to the perceived security threat posed by the
presence of U.S. military forces in the region. The possession of nuclear capabilities is framed as a means to address the security
dilemma it faces.
National Identity and Autonomy:

Peloponnesian War:

City-states in ancient Greece often had distinct identities, and the war was, in part, a struggle for autonomy and the preservation
of individual cultural and political systems.
North Korea's Ideology:

North Korea places a strong emphasis on its national identity and independence. The pursuit of nuclear weapons is sometimes
framed as a means to protect the country's unique political system and preserve its autonomy in the face of perceived external
threats.
Rational Calculations for Survival:

Peloponnesian War:

States in Thucydides' narrative act based on rational calculations of self-interest, survival, and strategic advantage.

North Korea's Nuclear Ambitions:

North Korea justifies its nuclear program as a rational response to ensure its survival in a complex geopolitical environment. The
possession of nuclear capabilities is seen as a means of deterring potential adversaries and securing the regime's survival.
While these connections provide a conceptual framework for understanding both historical events, it's essential to recognize the
substantial differences in context, technology, and global politics between ancient Greece and the contemporary world. The
analogy serves more as an analytical tool than a direct historical comparison.