Explain the main assumptions of liberalism. How is it different from Realism?

Q. Explain the main assumptions of liberalism. How is it different from Realism?

Liberalism and Realism are two of the most prominent theoretical frameworks within the study of International Relations (IR), and they offer differing perspectives on the nature of international politics, the behavior of states, and the possibilities for cooperation and conflict in the global system. While both theories attempt to explain the same phenomena, such as war, peace, trade, and cooperation, they approach these issues from very different viewpoints. The following comprehensive explanation will delve into the core assumptions of Liberalism in International Relations, followed by a detailed comparison with Realism, highlighting their key differences, similarities, and the implications of each theory for understanding global politics.

The Main Assumptions of Liberalism in International Relations

Liberalism, as a theoretical approach to International Relations, originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influenced by the ideas of thinkers like Immanuel Kant, John Locke, and later, Woodrow Wilson. It emerged as a response to the pessimistic worldview of Realism and the seemingly relentless conflicts that dominated European politics. The fundamental assumptions of Liberalism challenge the deterministic views of conflict in Realism, offering instead a more optimistic vision of the international system, one where cooperation, interdependence, and the rule of law can create possibilities for peace and mutual benefit.

The core assumptions of Liberalism can be summarized under the following themes:

1. Human Nature and Optimism about Progress

Liberalism, in contrast to Realism, holds a more optimistic view of human nature. Whereas Realists tend to view humans as driven by selfish instincts and the pursuit of power, Liberals believe that humans are capable of cooperation, progress, and improvement. This belief is rooted in the Enlightenment tradition, which emphasized the potential for human rationality and moral progress. Liberals argue that humans can transcend their more primitive desires through institutions, reason, and international norms.

For Liberals, the potential for global cooperation is not just an idealistic dream but a practical reality that can be realized through institutional structures that promote collective action and the protection of individual rights. This optimism is the basis for Liberalism’s belief that war is not inevitable, and that international relations can be characterized by peaceful cooperation through institutions like the United Nations, the World Trade Organization (WTO), and various human rights frameworks.

2. The Role of Institutions in Promoting Cooperation

One of the central tenets of Liberalism is the belief in the power of international institutions to promote cooperation and mitigate conflict. Unlike Realism, which views international relations as a zero-sum game where states are locked in perpetual competition for power and security, Liberals argue that institutions create the conditions for positive-sum games. By reducing uncertainty, providing information, and promoting communication among states, institutions make it possible for states to cooperate on issues such as trade, environmental protection, arms control, and even human rights.

For instance, the creation of international organizations such as the United Nations (UN) and regional institutions like the European Union (EU) reflects Liberalism’s belief that structured cooperation is both possible and beneficial. These institutions provide platforms for states to negotiate, resolve disputes, and create rules and norms that govern international behavior. The function of institutions, from a Liberal perspective, is to foster trust, reduce the likelihood of conflict, and enable states to reap the benefits of collaboration.

3. Economic Interdependence and the Role of Trade

Another key assumption of Liberalism is the idea of economic interdependence. Liberals believe that economic relations between states can help reduce the likelihood of war and conflict by creating mutual interests. Through trade and investment, states become interconnected and develop shared economic goals that make war less appealing. Economic interdependence is often presented as a force for peace, as the costs of war become greater when states are highly dependent on each other for resources, markets, and capital.

The classic example of this idea is the theory of commercial liberalism, which argues that free trade promotes peace by creating a web of interdependence between states. For example, the spread of global capitalism, according to Liberal thinkers, helps to reduce the prospects of war by ensuring that states are more likely to benefit from cooperation than from conflict.

4. International Law and Norms

Liberalism also places significant importance on international law and norms. Unlike Realists, who are skeptical of international law’s ability to constrain state behavior, Liberals argue that laws and norms play a crucial role in structuring the international system and guiding the behavior of states. According to Liberal thought, international law is not merely a tool used by powerful states to further their interests, but rather a system that reflects shared values and principles that guide the conduct of international affairs.

Liberal scholars argue that the spread of democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law can help to build a more just and peaceful world order. The international legal system, embodied by institutions such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and treaties like the Geneva Conventions, is seen as a mechanism for promoting accountability and resolving disputes peacefully.

5. The Importance of Democracy in International Relations

Democratic peace theory, which is a central aspect of Liberal thought, argues that democracies are less likely to go to war with one another. This idea, first popularized by scholars such as Immanuel Kant and later developed by Michael Doyle and others, suggests that democratic states, by virtue of their political systems, tend to resolve conflicts through diplomatic means rather than through war. The theory posits that democratic leaders are held accountable to their populations and therefore have a stronger incentive to avoid the costs of war, especially with other democracies.

Liberalism’s emphasis on democracy is not limited to bilateral relations between democratic states; it also extends to the broader concept of promoting democratic governance worldwide. Liberals argue that the spread of democracy can help to create a more peaceful international system because democracies, by nature, are more likely to engage in cooperative behavior and less likely to engage in aggressive wars.

Key Differences Between Liberalism and Realism

While Liberalism and Realism share a common concern with understanding and explaining the dynamics of international politics, they differ significantly in their fundamental assumptions, views of human nature, and prescriptions for international relations. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. View of Human Nature

· Realism: Realists generally hold a pessimistic view of human nature, asserting that individuals are driven by selfish instincts and that this extends to states. Realists believe that the pursuit of power and security is an inherent aspect of human and state behavior. This view is rooted in the assumption that humans are inherently competitive and that states, like individuals, act in their own self-interest.

· Liberalism: In contrast, Liberals have a more optimistic view of human nature. They believe that humans are capable of rational decision-making, cooperation, and progress. This belief in human reason and potential for improvement forms the basis for the Liberal hope that states can overcome selfish tendencies through the creation of institutions, laws, and norms that promote peace and cooperation.

2. The Role of Institutions

· Realism: Realists are skeptical about the ability of international institutions to significantly alter state behavior. They argue that institutions are largely a reflection of the power structures in the international system and that states will only adhere to international agreements and laws when it is in their national interest to do so. Realists emphasize that the international system is anarchic, and in this environment, states prioritize security and power over cooperation.

· Liberalism: Liberals, on the other hand, believe that international institutions play a critical role in mitigating anarchy and fostering cooperation. They argue that institutions can reduce uncertainty, promote transparency, and facilitate the peaceful resolution of conflicts. Through international organizations, treaties, and agreements, states can build trust and cooperation that makes mutual benefits more achievable.

3. International Conflict and War

· Realism: Realists argue that conflict and war are inevitable in the international system. They see the international system as an anarchic environment where states are constantly concerned with their own security and the balance of power. Realists contend that because there is no overarching authority to regulate state behavior, the competition for power and security often leads to conflict. War, according to Realists, is a natural and sometimes necessary outcome of this competitive environment.

· Liberalism: Liberals, in contrast, believe that conflict and war are not inevitable. They argue that through institutions, trade, democracy, and international law, the prospects for war can be reduced. While acknowledging that conflict can occur, Liberals contend that cooperation is possible and that the spread of democracy, economic interdependence, and international institutions can help prevent wars and foster peace.

4. View of Power

· Realism: Power is central to Realist thought. Realists believe that the pursuit of power is the primary motivator of state behavior. They view the international system as a struggle for power, where states are constantly seeking to maximize their relative power in order to ensure their survival and security. This often leads to a focus on military capabilities, alliances, and the balance of power.

· Liberalism: While Liberals also acknowledge the importance of power, they emphasize that power is not only military but also economic, diplomatic, and institutional. Liberals believe that power can be exercised through cooperation, the creation of international norms, and the building of mutually beneficial relationships. Power, in the Liberal worldview, is not solely a zero-sum game but can be positive-sum when states collaborate on shared interests.

5. Role of Economic Interdependence

· Realism: Realists are generally skeptical about the role of economic interdependence in preventing war. They argue that economic ties can be used by states to enhance their power and that trade relations do not fundamentally alter the competitive nature of the international system. In Realist thinking, economic interdependence does not guarantee peace and can sometimes exacerbate tensions.