Classical Realism

Eric Martin
1 min readJul 24, 2021

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Classical realism best reflects a biblical notion of human nature and the role of government. We have people come together and form nations. We assume these nations would be beneficial to our prosperity and our security. These states then must contend with the other states of the world. In that respect, the states are the primary actors in international affairs. We know that government is a gift from God to establish order, and the state acts as a member of the global community to establish global order.

In Dr. Ferkaluk’s presentation, we see that Arthur Homles argued that conflict among nations is inevitable in a sinful world. The government was given the right by God to use lethal force. This power given to the government by God is still limited. Governments cannot use their power to kill innocent people, be vicious, or achieve vengeance against another. In this manner, states can protect the lives of citizens and maintain social and global order without unnecessary harm to non-state actors.

To provide order and security, it may be necessary for the state to go to war with another that deems to be a threat. In that regard, that state is a rational actor with certain strengths and weaknesses related to its own security (Dooley 2015). Classical realists believe that the international order is anarchical and chaotic. Hobbs views political power as a means to prevent chaos and warfare. States competing with each other and deciding their self-interest helps maintain global order without a global governmental body.

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Eric Martin

Husband. Father. Veteran. Purple Heart Recipient Twitter: @actionaxiom