Simone Lawson
Political realism, a theory that emphasizes the pursuit of power and national interest in international relations, is practiced by several nations, though its application varies widely. Among the most prominent practitioners is the United States, which often prioritizes strategic interests and security over idealistic goals, as seen in its foreign policy decisions. Similarly, Russia and China are notable for their realist approaches, focusing on territorial integrity, economic influence, and geopolitical dominance. These nations frequently engage in pragmatic diplomacy, alliances, and deterrence strategies to secure their positions in a competitive global order. While realism is not exclusive to these countries, their consistent adherence to its principles makes them key examples of its practice in contemporary geopolitics.
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What You'll Learn
- United States: Balances power globally, prioritizing national interests over idealism in foreign policy decisions
- China: Pursues pragmatic diplomacy, focusing on economic growth and territorial sovereignty above all else
- Russia: Emphasizes geopolitical influence, using military and energy resources to assert dominance regionally
- India: Practices realism by maintaining strategic autonomy and diversifying international partnerships for security
- Israel: Prioritizes survival and security, employing hardline policies to navigate regional threats effectively
United States: Balances power globally, prioritizing national interests over idealism in foreign policy decisions
The United States has long been a prominent practitioner of political realism, a foreign policy approach that emphasizes the pursuit of national interests, power balancing, and pragmatic decision-making over idealistic or moral considerations. This realist tradition is deeply rooted in the nation’s history, from its early years of isolationism to its emergence as a global superpower in the 20th century. At its core, U.S. foreign policy is driven by the goal of maintaining its position as a dominant global power, ensuring national security, and advancing economic prosperity. This often requires making tough decisions that prioritize stability and self-interest over ideological or ethical principles.
One of the key ways the United States balances power globally is through its strategic alliances and military presence. By forming coalitions with nations that share its interests, such as NATO, the U.S. seeks to counterbalance potential threats and maintain a favorable global order. For example, during the Cold War, the U.S. pursued a policy of containment to limit Soviet influence, even if it meant supporting authoritarian regimes that aligned with its anti-communist goals. This pragmatic approach illustrates how the U.S. prioritizes power dynamics and national security over idealistic values like democracy promotion.
Economic interests also play a central role in U.S. foreign policy, reflecting its realist orientation. Trade agreements, sanctions, and economic aid are often used as tools to strengthen alliances, exert influence, or punish adversaries. For instance, the U.S. has historically leveraged its economic power to shape global institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, ensuring they align with its interests. Similarly, tariffs and trade wars, such as those with China, are employed to protect domestic industries and maintain economic dominance, even if they lead to tensions with other nations.
In recent decades, the U.S. has continued to practice political realism by adapting its strategies to new global challenges. The post-9/11 "War on Terror" saw the U.S. prioritize national security over diplomatic norms, as evidenced by its interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq. While these actions were framed as efforts to combat terrorism, they also served to maintain U.S. influence in critical regions. Similarly, the U.S. approach to rising powers like China reflects a realist calculus, focusing on countering China’s economic and military expansion to preserve its own global standing.
Despite occasional rhetorical commitments to promoting democracy and human rights, the U.S. consistently demonstrates that its foreign policy decisions are ultimately guided by national interests. This is evident in its relationships with countries like Saudi Arabia, where strategic and economic considerations outweigh concerns about human rights abuses. Such pragmatism underscores the enduring realist foundation of U.S. foreign policy, which remains focused on power balancing and self-preservation in an increasingly complex global landscape.
In conclusion, the United States exemplifies political realism by consistently prioritizing national interests and power balancing in its foreign policy decisions. From its military alliances and economic strategies to its responses to global challenges, the U.S. operates within a realist framework that values stability, security, and prosperity above idealistic goals. This approach has defined its role as a global superpower and continues to shape its interactions with the international community.
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China: Pursues pragmatic diplomacy, focusing on economic growth and territorial sovereignty above all else
China stands as a prominent example of a nation that rigorously practices political realism, a doctrine that prioritizes national interest, power, and security above idealistic goals. At the core of China’s foreign policy is a pragmatic approach to diplomacy, driven by the twin objectives of economic growth and the preservation of territorial sovereignty. This realism is deeply rooted in China’s historical experiences, particularly the "Century of Humiliation," which has instilled a strong sense of national resilience and a determination to avoid external domination. As a result, China’s actions on the global stage are calculated, strategic, and unapologetically focused on advancing its own interests.
Economic growth is the cornerstone of China’s pragmatic diplomacy. Since the reforms initiated by Deng Xiaoping in the late 1970s, China has pursued a policy of "reform and opening up," leveraging global markets to fuel its rapid economic development. This approach is evident in initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a massive infrastructure and investment program aimed at expanding China’s economic influence across Asia, Africa, Europe, and beyond. Through the BRI, China seeks to secure resources, open new markets, and create a network of economic dependencies that enhance its global standing. This focus on economic growth is not merely about prosperity but also about consolidating power and ensuring domestic stability, which the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) views as essential for its legitimacy.
Territorial sovereignty is another non-negotiable priority for China, reflecting its realist approach to international relations. Beijing aggressively defends its claims in the South China Sea, Taiwan, and other disputed territories, viewing these areas as integral to its national identity and security. China’s militarization of islands in the South China Sea and its assertive stance toward Taiwan demonstrate its willingness to use coercion to protect what it considers its sovereign rights. This behavior aligns with political realism’s emphasis on power projection and the defense of core interests, even at the risk of escalating tensions with neighboring states and global powers like the United States.
China’s realist diplomacy is also characterized by its selective engagement with international norms and institutions. While it participates in organizations like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, China often prioritizes its domestic laws and interests over global standards, particularly when it perceives them as infringing on its sovereignty. For instance, China has resisted international criticism of its human rights record, framing such issues as internal matters that foreign powers have no right to judge. This selective engagement underscores China’s commitment to a realist worldview, where the nation-state remains the primary actor and international norms are secondary to national interests.
In conclusion, China’s foreign policy is a textbook example of political realism, with its pragmatic diplomacy firmly centered on economic growth and territorial sovereignty. By prioritizing these objectives, China has transformed itself into a global power while maintaining a steadfast focus on its own interests. This approach, while often contentious, reflects a clear-eyed understanding of the anarchic nature of international relations, where power and self-preservation are the ultimate currencies. As China continues to rise, its realist doctrine will likely remain a defining feature of its interactions with the world, shaping the geopolitical landscape for decades to come.
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Russia: Emphasizes geopolitical influence, using military and energy resources to assert dominance regionally
Russia stands as a prominent example of a nation that practices political realism, emphasizing geopolitical influence and employing military and energy resources to assert dominance, particularly within its regional sphere. Rooted in a historical legacy of strategic expansion and a deep-seated desire for security, Russia’s foreign policy is driven by a realist mindset that prioritizes national interests, power projection, and the maintenance of a buffer zone against perceived threats. This approach is evident in its actions across Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East, where Russia seeks to solidify its position as a major global power.
One of the most direct ways Russia asserts its geopolitical influence is through its military capabilities. The Russian military serves not only as a defensive force but also as a tool for coercion and intervention. Examples include the annexation of Crimea in 2014, the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine, and its military presence in Syria. These actions demonstrate Russia’s willingness to use force to secure its interests, deter NATO expansion, and maintain influence over former Soviet territories. By projecting military power, Russia signals its resolve to protect what it considers its sphere of influence, even at the cost of international condemnation or sanctions.
Energy resources play an equally critical role in Russia’s realist strategy. As one of the world’s largest exporters of oil and natural gas, Russia leverages its energy dominance to exert economic and political pressure on neighboring states and European countries. Pipelines such as Nord Stream and the reliance of many European nations on Russian gas have given Moscow significant leverage in regional politics. For instance, Russia has historically used energy supplies as a bargaining chip in disputes with Ukraine, highlighting how energy resources are weaponized to achieve geopolitical objectives. This approach ensures that Russia remains a key player in regional and global energy markets, further cementing its influence.
Regionally, Russia’s actions are guided by a desire to reestablish itself as the dominant power in the post-Soviet space. Through initiatives like the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), Russia seeks to create economic and military alliances that reinforce its leadership. These organizations serve as mechanisms to counter Western influence and ensure that former Soviet republics remain within Russia’s orbit. Additionally, Russia’s interventions in countries like Belarus and Kazakhstan during times of political instability underscore its commitment to maintaining control over its immediate neighborhood.
Critically, Russia’s realist approach is also shaped by its perception of external threats, particularly from NATO and the European Union. The expansion of these Western institutions into Eastern Europe is viewed as a direct challenge to Russia’s security and influence. In response, Russia has adopted a policy of active resistance, using both military and diplomatic means to push back against what it perceives as encroachment. This includes the deployment of troops near NATO borders, cyber operations, and disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining Western cohesion. Such actions reflect Russia’s realist belief in the anarchic nature of the international system and the necessity of self-reliance and power accumulation.
In conclusion, Russia’s emphasis on geopolitical influence, coupled with its strategic use of military and energy resources, exemplifies its commitment to political realism. By prioritizing national interests and regional dominance, Russia seeks to secure its position as a major power in an increasingly competitive global order. While this approach has led to tensions with the West and accusations of aggression, it remains a consistent and deliberate strategy rooted in Russia’s historical and strategic imperatives. As such, Russia serves as a clear and contemporary example of a nation practicing political realism in the 21st century.
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India: Practices realism by maintaining strategic autonomy and diversifying international partnerships for security
India exemplifies political realism through its steadfast commitment to maintaining strategic autonomy and diversifying its international partnerships for security. Rooted in its historical experiences, including colonial rule and post-independence geopolitical challenges, India has consistently prioritized self-reliance in decision-making. This approach is evident in its refusal to align exclusively with any major power bloc, even during the Cold War, when it championed the Non-Aligned Movement. Strategic autonomy allows India to safeguard its national interests without being constrained by external pressures, ensuring that its foreign policy remains independent and adaptable to shifting global dynamics.
A key manifestation of India's realist approach is its diversification of international partnerships. Recognizing the risks of over-reliance on a single ally, India has cultivated relationships with multiple global and regional powers. For instance, while it maintains robust defense and economic ties with the United States, it also engages deeply with Russia for critical defense supplies and energy resources. Similarly, India has strengthened its strategic partnerships with France, Israel, and Japan, among others, to balance its security and economic interests. This multi-aligned strategy ensures that India retains leverage in international negotiations and is not vulnerable to the whims of any single power.
India's realist foreign policy is further underscored by its focus on hard power and territorial integrity. The country has consistently modernized its military capabilities, developed indigenous defense technologies, and adopted a proactive stance in addressing cross-border threats. Its nuclear doctrine, based on credible minimum deterrence, reflects a pragmatic approach to security, emphasizing retaliation only in the event of a nuclear attack. Additionally, India's assertive posture in border disputes, such as those with China and Pakistan, demonstrates its commitment to protecting its sovereignty and territorial claims, core tenets of realist principles.
Economic realism also plays a significant role in India's foreign policy. The country has pursued economic partnerships that enhance its strategic autonomy, such as its involvement in regional forums like the Quad (with the U.S., Japan, and Australia) and its push for greater self-reliance in critical sectors like defense manufacturing and technology. India's approach to global trade agreements, such as its reluctance to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), reflects its prioritization of domestic economic interests over external pressures. This economic pragmatism ensures that India's growth and development remain aligned with its broader national security objectives.
Finally, India's realist approach is evident in its cautious engagement with multilateral institutions. While it actively participates in forums like the United Nations, BRICS, and G20, India remains wary of ceding too much authority to supranational bodies. It advocates for reforms in institutions like the UN Security Council to reflect contemporary geopolitical realities, ensuring that its voice and interests are not marginalized. This balanced engagement with multilateralism allows India to benefit from global cooperation while safeguarding its autonomy and decision-making independence. In essence, India's practice of realism is a nuanced blend of strategic autonomy, diversified partnerships, and a pragmatic focus on national security and economic interests.
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Israel: Prioritizes survival and security, employing hardline policies to navigate regional threats effectively
Israel stands as a prominent example of a nation that practices political realism, prioritizing survival and security above all else. Situated in a geopolitically volatile region, Israel faces existential threats from neighboring states, non-state actors, and ideological adversaries. This reality has shaped its foreign and domestic policies, which are characterized by a hardline approach aimed at ensuring its continued existence and safeguarding its citizens. Political realism, with its emphasis on power, self-interest, and the anarchic nature of the international system, aligns closely with Israel’s strategic calculus. The nation’s actions are driven by a pragmatic assessment of threats and a willingness to use force, diplomacy, and alliances to maintain its security.
One of the most evident manifestations of Israel’s realist approach is its military posture. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are among the most advanced and battle-tested in the world, reflecting the nation’s commitment to deterrence and defensive capability. Israel’s policies, such as preemptive strikes against perceived threats (e.g., the 1981 bombing of Iraq’s Osirak nuclear reactor and strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in Syria), demonstrate its willingness to act unilaterally to neutralize dangers before they materialize. Additionally, the nation maintains a policy of strategic ambiguity regarding its nuclear capabilities, further reinforcing its deterrent posture. These actions underscore Israel’s realist principle of self-reliance in an unpredictable and hostile environment.
Israel’s diplomatic and alliance strategies also reflect its realist orientation. While it seeks partnerships with nations that share its security interests, such as the United States, it remains cautious about over-reliance on external powers. The Abraham Accords, which normalized relations with several Arab states, were driven by mutual security concerns, particularly regarding Iran, rather than idealistic goals. Israel’s relationships are transactional, focused on enhancing its security and economic stability. At the same time, it maintains a hardline stance toward adversaries like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran, refusing to compromise on issues it perceives as threatening its survival.
Domestically, Israel’s policies are shaped by the imperative of security. The construction of the West Bank barrier, for instance, was justified as a measure to prevent terrorist attacks, despite international criticism. Similarly, its settlement policies in the West Bank, while contentious, are viewed by many Israeli leaders as essential to securing defensible borders. These actions, though often criticized as violations of international norms, are consistent with Israel’s realist focus on tangible security gains over abstract principles.
Critically, Israel’s realist approach is not without controversy. Its hardline policies have drawn condemnation from human rights organizations and nations that prioritize liberal internationalist values. However, from a realist perspective, Israel’s actions are rational responses to its unique security challenges. The nation’s ability to navigate regional threats effectively, despite its small size and hostile surroundings, underscores the success of its realist strategy. Israel’s case illustrates how political realism, when applied consistently and with clear objectives, can enable a state to thrive in an adversarial environment.
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Frequently asked questions
The United States, particularly during the Cold War era, is often cited as a key practitioner of political realism, with figures like Henry Kissinger and policies such as containment reflecting realist principles.
Yes, China’s foreign policy often aligns with political realism, focusing on national interests, sovereignty, and strategic balance of power, as seen in its Belt and Road Initiative and South China Sea policies.
Yes, Russia’s foreign policy under leaders like Vladimir Putin is heavily rooted in political realism, emphasizing state sovereignty, power projection, and pragmatic alliances to secure national interests.
While the EU often emphasizes liberal internationalism, individual member states like France and Germany occasionally adopt realist approaches, prioritizing national security and economic interests in their foreign policies.
Yes, nations like India and Brazil often employ realist principles, focusing on strategic autonomy, regional influence, and non-alignment to safeguard their national interests in a multipolar world.
