Session 9: Anarchy, Structure, and Balance of Power

Kenneth Waltz believes that unlike domestic politics, the world of international politics is not subject to any hierarchical structure and is in turn, anarchic. Countries, in such a system, only aim at preserving their self-interest and avoid dependence on other states as being at the hinges of a benefactor does not guarantee sustenance. The author of 'Theory of International Politics' also believes that there is a balance of power in the international system which gets restored even after disruption.

One could argue that proof of intelligence agencies spying on other countries, adds strength to Waltz's claim about mistrust. The NSA has been found guilty of a massive hidden surveillance campaign on not only the citizens of USA, but also 35 world leaders including German Chancellor, Angela Merkel. Moreover, the assertion that countries will compete against one another and enhance military might so that one state does not become all powerful also makes sense in light of contemporary examples. These being, nuclear proliferation, and a growing emphasis on the military budget.

Despite the contributions made by the neorealist to enhance the debate between academics, the flaws in Waltz's reasoning are tough to ignore. Primarily, his claims are based on the assumption that countries are skeptical and refuse any sort of dependence. While trade agreements and the existence of blocs have often resulted in detriments, their existence is a sign of a keenness to collaborate and assert regional, collective dominance and not function as independent entities.

Also, while nations may compete against one another, and there may not be an outright victor when it comes to military might, often times, nations cooperate to form hegemony over other fragile states. Through constructions such as the United Nations and the NATO, these ‘strong’ nations, then, collectively dominate, or at least attempt to control the rest of the world.