Strengths and weakness in International Relations Studies Theoretical Approach

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Strengths and weakness in International Relations Studies Theoretical Approach

The theory applied in the study of International Relations is realism, which the discussion will further elaborate on in understanding its application in the contemporary study of this discipline. In depicting the strengths and weakness of this approach, it is imperative to peruse examples elaborating on its effectuality in creating comprehension pertaining to the global issues currently being faced. Through analyzing the accuracy of these examples in depicting the usefulness of this theoretical approach, then one might clearly demonstrate the strengths and weaknesses.

The first weakness observed is the lack of a proper definition of this approach for scholars studying it owing to its variability in interpretation. Arguments proposed indicate that it can be generalized or defined in a normative state. This is contrary to the opinion of other experts who opine that it possesses a loose framework thus a proper definition cannot be derived for students (Greener 181). Owing to this, scholars such as Elman reiterate that the failure of having a rigid definition is contributive to the mergence of two former approaches into the current one. Most analysts are likely to employ this latter opinion, in that, in regards to this theoretical approach, restriction is limiting thus it is important to study or analyze realism from various point of views rather than a simple theory. The unbroken interpretation that depicts its effectuality in application as depicted by realists is that the principle actor in the international political arena is the state in the bid to create a balance in power. The supporting arguments opine that the choices made and actions executed by the State are determine the collection decision of the people as it is the representative of a particular society. The similarity of this sentiment is observed in the theory of human nature developed by Thucydides who depicted human beings as self centered, egoistic, power hungry as well as concerned with self-preservation (Greener 185). He further purported that they are focused on self-protection through exclusion from others, which supports the foundation of the State. An example to further support this claim is the relationship between East Timor and Australia in World War II where the latter protected in self-interest and ensured its survival through the assistance of East Timor.

Realism, as a theory, provides praiseworthy and accurate arguments that substantiate some of the politically related global happening such as wars (Greener 190). Some of the accurate points of debate made are the justification of war, which they term as being inevitable. Such arguments are hard to argue against particularly when one looks closely at the numbers of wars currently ongoing globally. Opposing arguments from liberals opinionate that war should be considered as final resort in solving political and economic conflicts between states prompting the need for negotiations from the conflicting entities in order to decide on a better solution (Greener 194). Despite the accuracy indicted from the use of this theoretical approach, it is also imperative to consider the fact that it only provides explanation to global events rather than offering short and long terms solutions that might assist in alleviating the gravity oaf some situations. An example that clearly exemplifies this observation would be the eventualities seen during the Iraq War in 2003 pertaining to US invasion in Iraq in a bid to confiscate destructive weaponry.

Works Cited

Greener, B. K. “International Policing And International Relations”. International Relations 26.2 (2012): 181-198. Web.