Morgenthau’s great contribution to the study of
International Relations particularly his work on the realist theory is exceptional.
As a leading pioneer, his work is a must for any student of politics. He lists
down the basic principles of political realism in the first chapter of his book
“Politics Among Nations” that is a great introduction for anyone in the subject
matter.
Arguably his emphasis on the principles of reason
and rationality and power in the realm of political realism are the most interesting
and thorough. Rational choice theory is a leading formula in theoretical work but
many argue that not every action or decision (by an individual or a statesman
in particular within the study International Relations) can be looked at
through reason nor is rationality universal. Some even say that realism needs a
reality check of its own. But does it?
“The difference between international
politics as it actually is and a rational theory derived from it is like the
difference between a photograph and a painted portrait. The photograph shows
everything that can be seen by the naked eye; the painted portrait does not
show everything that can be seen by the naked eye, but it shows, or at least
seeks to show, one thing that the naked eye cannot see: the human essence of
the person portrayed….Political realism wants the photographic picture of the
political world to resemble as much as possible its painted portrait.”
The above quote is a beautifully constructed analogy
by Morgenthau. He acknowledges that reason and theory can only go so far.
Nothing can fully capture the realistic picture. But does that make theory
useless? Morgenthau’s defence makes it seem that that might not be the case. By
comparing theory to “an approximation to an ideal” rather than an accurate
depiction of reality, he makes a rather compelling case for Political realism
and its usefulness.
The acknowledgement of both sides (weaknesses and
strengths) of the coin by Morgenthau shows the thoroughness of his knowledge,
the excellence of his work as well as his dedication and integrity towards the
discourse of International Relations.
To respond to writer's idea of reality check, I think realism cannot keep a reality check because in mu understanding it does not conform to values and beliefs rather it argues for the empirical study of reality. So, it will not pass judgments on historical events and restrict itself to their explanation of causes and consequences.
ReplyDeleteYes Morgenthau was a brilliant writer who did exceptional work on the Realism theory, however i doubt the usefulness of his theory to large extent. For example he seems to believe that all states care only about power and so all that they do is to gain power. This seem to suggest that man (and states since states are men combined) do not care about morals or emotions or legality in their thirst for power. This dark side of man may exist to a great extent, but it cannot be said for everybody's actions in the political arena.
ReplyDeleteGood points Rida and I think that Morgenthau does provide useful template from which student of politics can begin to study and understand international relations.
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