Neo-Classical Realism vs. Neorealism

Attribute	Neo-Classical Realism	Neorealism
Key Figures	Hans Morgenthau, Kenneth Waltz	Kenneth Waltz
Focus	Individual leaders and their perceptions	Anarchy and structure of the international system
Level of Analysis	State level	System level
Causes of State Behavior	Domestic and systemic factors	Anarchy and distribution of power
Role of Power	Important but not the only factor	Central to state behavior

Introduction

Neo-Classical 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 Neo-Classical Realism and Neorealism to provide a better understanding of their differences and similarities.

Neo-Classical Realism

Neo-Classical Realism is a theory that builds upon the foundation of Classical Realism, which emphasizes the importance of power and security in international relations. However, Neo-Classical Realism introduces a more nuanced understanding of state behavior by incorporating domestic factors into the analysis. According to Neo-Classical Realism, a state's foreign policy decisions are influenced not only by external threats and opportunities but also by internal factors such as the state's leadership, national identity, and societal values.

• Neo-Classical Realism emphasizes the role of the state's leadership in shaping its foreign policy decisions.
• It argues that a state's national identity and societal values also play a significant role in determining its behavior in the international system.
• Neo-Classical Realism suggests that states may pursue different foreign policy strategies based on their unique domestic characteristics.
• It acknowledges the importance of power and security concerns but argues that these factors are mediated by domestic considerations.

Neorealism

Neorealism, also known as Structural Realism, is a theory that focuses on the distribution of power in the international system as the primary driver of state behavior. Developed by Kenneth Waltz, Neorealism argues that states are rational actors who seek to maximize their security in an anarchic international system. According to Neorealism, the structure of the international system, characterized by the absence of a central authority, compels states to prioritize their own security and survival above all else.

• Neorealism posits that states are primarily concerned with ensuring their survival in a self-help system.
• It argues that the distribution of power among states is the key determinant of their behavior in the international system.
• Neorealism emphasizes the importance of systemic factors over domestic considerations in shaping state behavior.
• It suggests that states will balance against or bandwagon with other states based on power considerations rather than domestic factors.

Comparing Attributes

When comparing Neo-Classical Realism and Neorealism, it is evident that both theories offer valuable insights into the behavior of states in the international system. However, they differ in their emphasis on the role of domestic factors versus systemic factors in shaping state behavior. Neo-Classical Realism highlights the importance of domestic considerations such as leadership, national identity, and societal values, while Neorealism prioritizes systemic factors such as the distribution of power and the anarchic nature of the international system.

• Neo-Classical Realism incorporates domestic factors into its analysis of state behavior.
• Neorealism focuses on systemic factors and the distribution of power in the international system.
• Neo-Classical Realism argues that states' foreign policy decisions are influenced by both internal and external factors.
• Neorealism posits that states are primarily driven by the need to ensure their security in an anarchic international system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Neo-Classical Realism and Neorealism are two influential theories in the field of international relations that offer distinct perspectives on state behavior. While Neo-Classical Realism emphasizes the role of domestic factors in shaping state behavior, Neorealism focuses on systemic factors and the distribution of power in the international system. By comparing the attributes of these two theories, scholars and policymakers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics that drive state behavior in the international arena.