Realpolitik: A Historical Examination with John Bew

Realpolitik is a term used to describe a pragmatic approach to international relations, one that prioritizes the pursuit of national interest above all else. It is often contrasted with idealism, which is a more principled approach that emphasizes the importance of values such as justice and human rights.

Realism has a long history in international relations. Thucydides, an ancient Greek historian, wrote about the Peloponnesian War in terms that would be familiar to modern realists. He argued that the war was caused by the rise of Athens and the fear that this inspired in Sparta. Thucydides believed that states are naturally competitive and that they will always act in their own best interests.

Realpolitik: A History

by John Bew

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	14455 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	403 pages
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In the 19th century, realpolitik was popularized by German statesman Otto von Bismarck. Bismarck believed that the best way to achieve Germany's goals was to form alliances with other countries and to use diplomacy to isolate its enemies. Bismarck's realpolitik was successful in unifying Germany and in making it a major power in Europe.

In the 20th century, realpolitik was used by both the United States and the Soviet Union to justify their actions during the Cold War. The United States adopted a policy of containment, which aimed to prevent the spread of communism. The Soviet Union, on the other hand, pursued a policy of expansion, which aimed to spread communism to other countries. Both the United States and the Soviet Union were willing to use force to achieve their goals.

The Arguments for and Against Realpolitik

There are a number of arguments in favor of realpolitik. First, realists argue that it is a realistic approach to international relations. They believe that states are naturally competitive and that they will always act in their own best interests. Second, realists argue that realpolitik is effective. They point to the success of Bismarck's realpolitik in unifying Germany and to the success of the United States' containment policy during the Cold War.

There are also a number of arguments against realpolitik. First, critics argue that it is amoral. They believe that realpolitik is based on the assumption that states have no moral obligations to each other. Second, critics argue that realpolitik is dangerous. They believe that it can lead to war and other forms of conflict.

The Implications of Realpolitik for the Future of International Relations

The future of realpolitik is uncertain. Some scholars believe that it is becoming increasingly outdated in the 21st century. They point to the rise of globalization and the increasing interconnectedness of the world. These factors, they argue, are making it more difficult for states to pursue their national interests in isolation.

Other scholars believe that realpolitik will continue to be relevant in the future. They argue that the world is still a dangerous place and that states will always need to protect their own security.

The debate over realpolitik is likely to continue for many years to come. It is a complex and controversial issue with no easy answers. However, it is an important issue to consider, as it has implications for the future of international relations.

Realpolitik is a pragmatic approach to international relations that prioritizes the pursuit of national interest above all else. It has a long history and has been used by many different countries to achieve their goals. There are a number of arguments for and against realpolitik, and its future is uncertain. However, it is an important issue to consider, as it has implications for the future of international relations.

Realpolitik: A History

by John Bew

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	14455 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	403 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE