Robert Koehane and Lisa Martin in this week’s reading
highlight the growing importance of institutionalization and criticize some of
the Realist views that exist in the international system. Institutions in their
eyes are seen as an imperative mechanism that has its roots dug deep into the
essence of the international system. While there maybe many loopholes and flaws
in their efficient functioning, institutions can be effective in curbing
anarchy and war in the international sphere.
While we have continuously spoken about anarchy in the
international system, what many don’t realize that states are self centered and
self interested, for them their survival is the primary aim. States are
egoistic creatures in the international system and they will never be ready to
bow down to another state. In times like this, the dire need of the situation
are institutions, who can act as the over arching bodies to ensure that there
is peace and harmony in the international system. There exists a certain amount
of interdependence between states, whether it is strategic or economic, states
base their actions and are involved in a convoluted relationship with many
other states. This is when institutions come in the play their role of
highlighting the interdependence and showing the positive aspects of the institutionalization.
Similarly, through the help of institutions, all states can find out about the
true intentions of the other states. If not completely, they will have a
certain idea about the views, standings and the capabilities of certain states,
thus this is another positive aspect of institutions in the international arena
which many fail to register to. Thus it is safe to conclude, that through efficient
functioning of institutions, peace and harmony can exist in the international
system.
I agree with the claim that institutions can be effective in preventing war but it also depends on the guiding forces behind these organizations that pull the strings.For example, League of Nations was unable to prevent a war because a powerful state like USA was not part of it. Whereas, United Nations, comprising of all world powers, has done a fairly good job of maintaining peace.
ReplyDeleteNice title, lol. It's interesting that you posit several claims made by realists to be solid facts (states are self-interested and seek survival). But what is more interesting is the amount of faith you place in the ability of institutions to ensure peace. Does this actual happen in practice? And how can states actually know the intentions of other states through international institutions?
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