1. According to Realism, the essence of international politics is

A. The pursuit of power

B. International law & regimes

C. Security

D. Moral and Ideological Hegemony

Answer

A. The pursuit of power

Explanation

Realism, as a dominant theory in international relations, views international politics as a struggle for power among states. Realists argue that states operate in an anarchic international system where there is no central authority to enforce rules. As a result, states prioritize their national interests, primarily focusing on power acquisition, survival, and security.

• Classical Realism (e.g., Hans Morgenthau) emphasizes human nature as inherently power-seeking, leading to conflicts between states.
• Neorealism (e.g., Kenneth Waltz) argues that the structure of the international system, characterized by anarchy, compels states to compete for power to ensure survival.

The other options do not fully capture the core of Realism:

• B. International law & regimes – Realists are skeptical of international institutions and laws, believing that power dynamics ultimately determine outcomes.
• C. Security – While security is a key concern, it is pursued through power accumulation, making power the fundamental essence.
• D. Moral and Ideological Hegemony – Realists reject moral idealism, arguing that states act based on interest, not ideology or ethics.

2. Which one of the following is not a key tenet of Liberalism in IR

A. Political philosophy of Kant

B. Political philosophy of Hobbes

C. Institutional Norms can influence state behaviour

D. International Regimes can influence patterns of cooperation

Answer

B. Political philosophy of Hobbes

Explanation

Liberalism in International Relations (IR) emphasizes cooperation, institutions, and the role of international norms in shaping state behavior. It stands in contrast to Realism by arguing that anarchy does not necessarily lead to constant conflict but can be mitigated by institutions, democracy, and economic interdependence.

• A. Political philosophy of Kant – Liberalism draws heavily from Immanuel Kant, particularly his idea of a “perpetual peace” where democratic states, economic interdependence, and international institutions reduce the likelihood of war.
• C. Institutional norms can influence state behavior – A core liberal belief is that institutions (e.g., the United Nations, WTO) create norms that encourage states to act cooperatively rather than solely pursuing power.
• D. International regimes can influence patterns of cooperation – Liberals argue that international regimes (such as trade agreements, environmental treaties) establish rules that promote stability and cooperation.

Why is B incorrect?

• Thomas Hobbes’ political philosophy is a foundation of Realism, not Liberalism. In Leviathan, Hobbes describes the “state of nature” as a war of all against all, where survival depends on power and self-interest—key principles of Realism.
• Liberals reject the Hobbesian view that conflict is inevitable, instead believing in the transformative potential of democracy, economic ties, and institutions.