Session 6: Realist Liberalism, a theoretical concept.

Herz, in his article "Idealist Internationalism and the Security Dilemma", talks about about the concept Realist Liberalism. He tries to explain the security dilemma present in the international arena as every nation feels threatened by another one and are in search for power so their rivals don't over power them. 

Herz takes the approach of Realist Liberalism as a solution to this dilemma. He has in his mind a combination of a reasonable degree of selfish realism and a reasonable degree of social idealism. Realism says that there is constant anarchy in the international system and the primary concern of all states is power, for which they should build up military and increase power. While on the other hand, idealism suggests that harmony exists or eventually will be realized by people and that power can be diffused for the common good. The explanation shows how these two take a completely different approach towards different matters. Herz tries to combine the both and explains it as "the theory and practice of the realizable ideal" by taking the basic ideas of both; the realist and liberal schools.

While this might seem a fantastic approach towards solving the dilemma but again, its just theory. It not be as simple as Herz has described it to be by combining the strengths of both the concepts. Security threat is something that will always exist and is inevitable. However, I do agree with Herz that if we try to combine the strong sides of both the approaches, there is hope for peace in the world.