what is realism in international relations

Realism is a school of thought in international relations theory that emphasizes the constraints on politics that result from humankinds egoistic nature and the absence of a central authority above the state. It is one of the dominant schools of thought in international relations theory, theoretically formalizing the statesmanship of Realpolitik of early modern Europe). The key propositions of realism include state-centrism, anarchy, and the absence of any actor above states capable of regulating their interactions). The theory posits that the nation-state is the principal actor in international relations, and that states are rational unitary actors acting under their own national interests. Realists believe that the highest goal is the survival of the state, which explains why states actions are judged according to the ethics of responsibility rather than by moral principles. Realism has been the dominant IR theory for nearly a century, especially prevalent during the Cold War, and remains an important analytical tool for every student of International Relations.