Neo-Realism vs. Neoliberalism

Attribute	Neo-Realism	Neoliberalism
Focus	State-centric	Market-centric
View on power	Power is the primary driver of international relations	Believes in cooperation and interdependence
Security	Emphasizes military power and security	Focuses on economic interdependence for security
International institutions	Skeptical of their effectiveness	Believes in the importance of international institutions
Trade	Less emphasis on trade	Emphasizes free trade and globalization

Introduction

Neo-realism and neoliberalism are two prominent theories in the field of international relations that offer different perspectives on how states interact with each other in the global arena. While both theories seek to explain the behavior of states, they have distinct attributes that set them apart from each other.

Neo-Realism

Neo-realism, also known as structural realism, is a theory that emphasizes the importance of the international system in shaping the behavior of states. According to neo-realists, states are rational actors that seek to maximize their security in an anarchic world. This theory is rooted in the idea that the distribution of power among states is the primary driver of international relations.

Neo-realism posits that states are primarily concerned with ensuring their survival in a competitive environment where there is no overarching authority to enforce rules. This leads to a focus on military capabilities and the balance of power as key determinants of state behavior. Neo-realists argue that states will act in their own self-interest, leading to a constant struggle for power and security.

Key figures associated with neo-realism include Kenneth Waltz and John Mearsheimer, who have contributed to the development of this theory. Neo-realism has been influential in shaping the study of international relations and has been used to analyze conflicts and power dynamics between states.

Neoliberalism

Neoliberalism, on the other hand, is a theory that focuses on the role of institutions and cooperation in international relations. Unlike neo-realism, neoliberalism argues that states can work together to achieve common goals and promote mutual interests through international organizations and agreements.

Neoliberalism emphasizes the importance of economic interdependence, international law, and diplomacy in fostering cooperation among states. Proponents of neoliberalism believe that institutions such as the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and European Union play a crucial role in promoting peace and stability in the international system.

Key figures associated with neoliberalism include Robert Keohane and Joseph Nye, who have contributed to the development of this theory. Neoliberalism has gained prominence in recent decades as globalization has increased economic and political interconnectedness among states.

Comparison

While neo-realism and neoliberalism offer different perspectives on international relations, they also share some similarities. Both theories acknowledge the importance of power in shaping state behavior, although they differ in their interpretation of how power operates in the international system.

• Neo-realism focuses on the distribution of power among states as a key determinant of behavior.
• Neoliberalism emphasizes the role of institutions and cooperation in mitigating conflicts and promoting stability.

Another key difference between neo-realism and neoliberalism is their view on the nature of the international system. Neo-realism sees the international system as anarchic and characterized by self-help, while neoliberalism sees the potential for cooperation and collective action through institutions.

Overall, neo-realism and neoliberalism offer distinct perspectives on international relations that have shaped the study of global politics. While they have their differences, both theories contribute to our understanding of how states interact with each other in the complex and ever-changing world of international relations.