Structural Realism Vs Neoliberalism

Within the study of international relations, neoliberalism is a theory about achieving international cooperation between states in the international system. Neoliberalism can be seen as a response to structural realism. These two theories have in common that their main focus of analysis is the state and its interests. They also have the same interest in studying rationality and utility maximizing. Another assessment that these two theories share is that cooperation is very difficult to accomplish in an anarchic system. Because there is no higher authority above the states, the different actors cannot know or trust each other’s intentions and will therefore do what is best in their own interest and thus will not cooperate with each other. International

Another difference between the two theories is that neoliberalists state that the emergence of international institutions, whether they be formal or informal, has made it easier to accomplish cooperation between states. Neoliberalists view the anarchy as a system that is slowly being taken over by human processes as well as emerging institutions, that now have more ability to ensure states ' survival and reduce uncertainty among states. Structural realists, on the other hand, believe that within an anarchic system, there is an inability to control, which contributes to uncertainty, mistrust, and the desire for power. Neoliberalists name interdependence as one of the reasons why realism can be considered an inaccurate description of today 's global politics. Interdependence is about the mutual reliance two or more states start. The amount of interdependence has increased throughout the years due to several industrial and technological developments. Interdependent relationships can be about economical, ecological, emotional or moral reliabilities. The participants in an interdependent relationship can benefit from the outcomes of the cooperation, and will therefore hesitate to end the relationship. Interdependence is basically about the creation of common interests or goals that can only be achieved if several states

Russett and Oneal (2001) mention the factors of legitimacy, accountability, institutional checks and balances, transparency, and credibility of international agreements. Through the democratic states produce patterns of cooperation and it leads to peace. By economic interdependence, processes of reciprocal attention and communication, perceptions of needs and responsiveness and bonds of mutually rewarding transactions and feelings of community are being created. Economic interdependence enhances the chances for international peace throughout international trade and it reduces the possibility of conflict. Democracy and economic interdependence, both reduce the likelihood for