History and Neorealism

Leading historians and political scientists examine the relationship between history and the dominant theory of IR, realism.

Neorealists argue that nations operate on the basis of self-interest defined in terms of power. This book contends that while some leaders have egregiously expanded their power, others have sought less power than their comparative strength might have justified, raising hope for a world with less conflict.Neorealists argue that all states aim to acquire power and that state cooperation can therefore only be temporary, based on a common opposition to a third country. This view condemns the world to endless conflict for the indefinite future. Based upon careful attention to actual historical outcomes, this book contends that, while some countries and leaders have demonstrated excessive power drives, others have essentially underplayed their power and sought less position and influence than their comparative strength might have justified. Featuring case studies from across the globe, History and Neorealism examines how states have actually acted. The authors conclude that leadership, domestic politics, and the domain (of gain or loss) in which they reside play an important role along with international factors in raising the possibility of a world in which conflict does not remain constant and, though not eliminated, can be progressively reduced.