Mearsheimer vs. Walzer

Attribute	Mearsheimer	Walzer
Approach to international relations	Realism	Just war theory
Focus on state behavior	Emphasizes state behavior as driven by self-interest and power	Considers state behavior in the context of moral principles
View on use of force	Believes in the importance of military power and deterrence	Advocates for the use of force only in certain circumstances
Role of morality in international relations	Downplays the role of morality in state actions	Emphasizes the importance of moral considerations in state actions

Background

John Mearsheimer and Michael Walzer are two prominent political theorists who have made significant contributions to the field of international relations. Mearsheimer is known for his theory of offensive realism, which posits that states are primarily concerned with maximizing their own power in order to ensure their security in a world where anarchy reigns. On the other hand, Walzer is best known for his work on just war theory and the ethics of warfare, arguing that there are moral limits to the use of force in international conflicts.

Approach to International Relations

Mearsheimer's offensive realism is a structural theory that focuses on the distribution of power among states in the international system. He argues that states are rational actors that seek to maximize their power in order to ensure their survival in a self-help world. Mearsheimer believes that states are primarily concerned with their own security and will act aggressively to maintain their position in the international hierarchy.

On the other hand, Walzer takes a more normative approach to international relations, focusing on the ethical considerations that should guide state behavior in the international arena. He argues that states have a moral obligation to adhere to certain principles, such as the protection of non-combatants and the respect for human rights, even in times of war. Walzer's just war theory provides a framework for evaluating the justice of military actions and the legitimacy of using force in international conflicts.

Views on Power and Morality

Mearsheimer's offensive realism places a strong emphasis on the role of power in international relations. He believes that states are driven by the desire to maximize their power in order to ensure their security in a world where anarchy prevails. Mearsheimer argues that states will pursue their interests aggressively, even if it means engaging in conflict with other states.

Walzer, on the other hand, believes that there are moral limits to the use of power in international relations. He argues that states have a responsibility to consider the ethical implications of their actions and to adhere to certain moral principles, even in times of war. Walzer's just war theory provides a framework for evaluating the justice of military actions and the ethical considerations that should guide state behavior in armed conflicts.

Impact on International Relations Theory

Mearsheimer's offensive realism has had a significant impact on the field of international relations, challenging traditional assumptions about state behavior and the nature of power in the international system. His theory has sparked debate among scholars and policymakers about the role of power in international relations and the implications of an anarchic world order.

Walzer's work on just war theory has also had a profound impact on the field of international relations, providing a moral framework for evaluating the justice of military actions and the ethical considerations that should guide state behavior in armed conflicts. His emphasis on the moral limits of power has influenced debates about the ethics of warfare and the responsibilities of states in the international arena.

Conclusion

In conclusion, John Mearsheimer and Michael Walzer are two influential political theorists who have made significant contributions to the field of international relations. While Mearsheimer's offensive realism focuses on the role of power in state behavior and the pursuit of security in an anarchic world, Walzer's just war theory emphasizes the moral limits of power and the ethical considerations that should guide state behavior in international conflicts. Both theorists have had a lasting impact on the field of international relations, shaping debates about the nature of power, morality, and state behavior in the international arena.