EL IDEALISMO Y EL REALISMO - TEORÍAS DE LAS RELACIONES INTERNACIONALES.

Introduction to International Relations

Overview of the Session

• The speaker welcomes the audience and expresses enthusiasm for discussing international relations.

• The session will cover theories in international relations, focusing on how they explain conflicts and actions of various actors.

Realism in Political Theory

Foundations of Realism

• Realism is based on the belief that humans are inherently flawed, leading to a lack of natural harmony among states.

• It emphasizes constant competition among states for power and influence, with moral codes differing between individuals and states.

Key Principles of Realism

• The state's actions are justified as they seek national welfare; state conduct cannot be morally questioned but can only be controlled.

• International politics is characterized by a struggle for power in an anarchic environment, where war is seen as a legitimate means to achieve immediate power.

Central Tenets

• States are central actors in international relations; their survival is paramount. Internal politics can be distinctly separated from foreign policy.

• National security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity are crucial for state survival within the competitive landscape.

Types of Realism

Offensive Realism

• This perspective posits that states must expand their power to ensure security; greater military capacity leads to enhanced safety.

Defensive Realism

• Focuses on maintaining existing power rather than expansion; states should defend their status quo while remaining open to opportunities for growth.

Neorealism (Structural Realism)

• A modern adaptation of realism emphasizing that the international system shapes actor behavior more than individual actions do.

Symbiotic Realism

Human Nature's Role

• This theory incorporates human instincts influenced by neurobiology, suggesting basic instincts take precedence during survival situations but allows moral action once needs are met.

Idealist Perspective

Critique of Realism

• Idealists argue against realism by asserting that conflicts can always be resolved peacefully and view humans as inherently good, with negative behaviors stemming from historical or cultural factors.

International Relations: Idealism vs. Realism

The Role of International Community in Conflict Resolution

• Discussion on the concept of an international community aiming for peaceful conflict resolution, emphasizing cooperation over competition.

• Reference to idealist school of thought, which posits that foreign policy should prioritize moral values and human rights to achieve peace and stability.

Key Philosophical Influences

• Mention of Emmanuel Kant's "Perpetual Peace," highlighting its significance in shaping ideas around international relations and leading to the formation of the League of Nations and later the United Nations.

Contrasting Perspectives: Idealism vs. Realism

• Examination of how realism presents a harsher view of state interactions, focusing on defense, aggression, and survival instincts inherent in human nature.

• Idealism advocates for cooperation and institutional frameworks, believing in humanity's capacity to organize for the common good rather than selfish interests.

Engaging with Current Global Dynamics

• Invitation for audience opinions on whether the world is moving towards mutual cooperation as suggested by idealism or remaining entrenched in realism.

Call to Action

• Encouragement for viewers to engage with content through likes, subscriptions, and notifications for future videos.