Classical Realism in International Relations Theory and Ethics

Abstract

In this paper the author analyzes the realist theory in international relations with an emphasis on the relationship between this theory and ethical issues that arise in interstate relations. The author presents the traditional realists' (Thucydides, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Spinoza, Rousseau) concepts of man, the state and the international system as well as their reasons for excluding ethical norms from international relations, and also demonstrates the one-sidedness and incompleteness of the realists' views. The author also shows that the reasons for excluding ethics from the field of international politics are inadequate, since the conditions of realism for the application of its morality in international relations seem to be too high and therefore exclude the possibility of any authentic moral action, not only in international politics, but also in the domestic political community.