Realism in the Study of International Relations: A Theoretical Consideration

Abstract

Despite being an aggregate of the numerous events and issues that summates the relationships among world nations, the study of International Relations could be best undertaken through the instrumentality of theories. Theories provide an intellectual with the ability to critically, logically and coherently sort international interactions and digest them to manageable categories for appropriate comprehension. This differentiates the study of International Relations as an academic discipline from its laymen view. Considering the indispensability of theories in the study of International Relations, therefore, this paper studied Realism as an important theory in the analysis of international interactions. Having scrutinised its meaning, development and contributions to discipline, the paper argued that Realism is invaluable in the study of International Relations. However, considering its pitfalls, the paper submitted that despite its importance, it should preferably not be the sole lenses for the interpretation of international interactions.