Understanding International Society: Theories, Institutions, and the Quest for Order
The English School of International Relations: Exploring Three Perspectives
Understanding the Three Schools of Thought
Realism: Power and Security
Realists believe that power is the key to ensuring security in international relations. They emphasize the competition for power among states and often downplay the role of morality. Realists view social problems as domestic issues and argue that states cannot trust each other.
Rationalism: Shared Interests and Institutions
Rationalists contend that states within an international society recognize their common interests and values. They utilize shared rules and institutions to achieve these common goals. The creation and maintenance of norms, rules, institutions, and dialogue are central to rationalist IR theory.
Revolutionism: Moral Unity and Global Identity
Revolutionists tend to be optimistic about human nature and advocate for the moral unity of states. They focus on non-governmental institutions (NGOs), individuals and their global identities, and the global population as a whole, rather than solely on states.
International Society vs. International System
International society refers to a group of states that share norms and values based on common institutions. These societies can be regional or encompass all countries within the international system. The key distinction lies in the shared norms and values that foster a higher degree of order in their relationships.
In contrast, the international system, as described by realists, is characterized by anarchy, where sovereign states interact without a higher authority. Within this system, multiple international societies can exist.
Institutions of International Society
Several key institutions contribute to the functioning of international society:
- States: States create, administer, enforce, and adapt the rules that govern international relations.
- Balance of Power: A situation where power is distributed among states, preventing any single state from dominating others. The balance of power protects state sovereignty and is essential for the functioning of other institutions.
- International Law: A set of rules, both formal and informal, that govern relations between states. International law establishes rules of coexistence and aims to ensure compliance, although limitations and violations can occur.
- Diplomacy: A highly institutionalized practice that facilitates communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution between states.
- War: While seemingly contradictory, war can be considered an institution within international society. It can be used to enforce international law, maintain the balance of power, and sometimes even bring about positive change.
- Great Powers: Superpowers like the United States can contribute to international order by managing their relations through balance of power or restraint, controlling crises, and creating spheres of influence.
Order vs. Justice: A Balancing Act
Tensions can arise between maintaining order and achieving justice in international society. The period of decolonization exemplified this challenge, as newly independent states sought economic development and justice. Balancing these demands incrementally is crucial to avoid destabilization.
Domestic Analogy and the Possibility of International Justice
The domestic analogy, as discussed by Hedley Bull, draws parallels between the experiences of individuals in domestic society and states in the international system. It raises questions about whether international justice is achievable and whether any conception of justice can influence world politics.