Principles of the classical
theories in IR:
(neo)realism, (neo)liberalism,
(neo)marxism
Power is not always easy to observe: we
formulate laws (theories) of its operation
If “projects” are evidence of power, what theories might result?
All three focus on visible forms of power & effects
Waltz is a realist
Waltz Made Simpler
3rd image; group
relations; system
2nd image; group
level; state
1st image; unit
level; individual
Character of
the system
determines
state behavior
Character of
the state
determines its
behavior
Character of
the sovereign
determines
state behavior
Too much structure eliminates autonomy…
Critical social theory delves more deeply
into the relationship between
structures and agency, and that which
may count but is difficult to observe