Defensive Realism vs. Neorealism

Attribute	Defensive Realism	Neorealism
Focus on security	Emphasizes the importance of security and survival	Also prioritizes security concerns
State behavior	States are primarily concerned with self-preservation	States are rational actors seeking to maximize their power
Anarchy	Views international system as anarchic and competitive	Believes in the anarchic nature of the international system
Power distribution	Focuses on relative power of states	Emphasizes the distribution of power among states
Conflict resolution	Advocates for balancing power to prevent conflict	Believes in the importance of balancing power to maintain stability

Introduction

Defensive realism and neorealism are two prominent theories in the field of international relations that seek to explain the behavior of states in the international system. While both theories share some similarities, they also have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will compare the key attributes of defensive realism and neorealism to provide a better understanding of their differences and similarities.

Definition of Defensive Realism

Defensive realism, also known as structural realism, is a theory of international relations that emphasizes the importance of the international system in shaping the behavior of states. According to defensive realists, states are primarily concerned with ensuring their security and survival in a competitive and anarchic international environment. Defensive realists argue that states seek to maintain a balance of power to prevent any one state from becoming too dominant and threatening the security of others.

Key Attributes of Defensive Realism

• Focus on security: Defensive realism places a strong emphasis on the security concerns of states. States are seen as rational actors that prioritize their own security and survival above all else.
• Balance of power: Defensive realists believe that states seek to maintain a balance of power in the international system to prevent any one state from becoming too powerful and threatening the security of others.
• Anarchy: Defensive realism acknowledges the anarchic nature of the international system, where there is no central authority to enforce rules or prevent conflict between states.
• State behavior: Defensive realists argue that states behave in a cautious and defensive manner, seeking to avoid conflict and maintain stability in the international system.
• Security dilemma: Defensive realism highlights the security dilemma, where states' efforts to enhance their own security can inadvertently lead to increased insecurity for other states.

Definition of Neorealism

Neorealism, also known as structural realism, is a theory of international relations developed by Kenneth Waltz that focuses on the distribution of power in the international system. Neorealists argue that the structure of the international system, rather than the nature of individual states, is the primary determinant of state behavior. According to neorealism, states are driven by the logic of power and seek to maximize their relative power position in order to ensure their security and survival.

Key Attributes of Neorealism

• Structure of the international system: Neorealism emphasizes the importance of the distribution of power in shaping state behavior. The structure of the international system, characterized by anarchy and the distribution of power among states, is the key factor influencing state behavior.
• Balance of power: Neorealists also believe in the importance of maintaining a balance of power in the international system to prevent any one state from becoming too dominant and threatening the security of others.
• Rational actors: Neorealists view states as rational actors that seek to maximize their relative power position in order to ensure their security and survival in a competitive international environment.
• Security dilemma: Neorealism also acknowledges the security dilemma, where states' efforts to enhance their own security can inadvertently lead to increased insecurity for other states.
• Focus on power: Neorealism places a strong emphasis on power as the primary driver of state behavior. States are seen as constantly seeking to increase their power relative to other states in order to enhance their security and survival.

Comparison of Defensive Realism and Neorealism

While defensive realism and neorealism share some similarities, such as their focus on the importance of security and the balance of power in the international system, they also have distinct attributes that set them apart. Defensive realism places a greater emphasis on the security concerns of states and the cautious, defensive behavior they exhibit in the international system. Neorealism, on the other hand, focuses more on the distribution of power and the rational pursuit of power by states to ensure their security and survival.

Both defensive realism and neorealism acknowledge the anarchic nature of the international system and the security dilemma that arises from states' efforts to enhance their own security. However, defensive realism tends to view states as more cautious and risk-averse in their behavior, while neorealism sees states as rational actors that seek to maximize their power position in a competitive international environment.

In conclusion, while defensive realism and neorealism share some common attributes, such as their emphasis on security and the balance of power, they also have distinct differences in their focus and assumptions about state behavior in the international system. By understanding the key attributes of both theories, we can gain a better insight into the complexities of state behavior and interactions in the international arena.