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The Tragedy of Great Power Politics

Name: The Tragedy of Great Power Politics
Author: John J. Mearsheimer

by John J. Mearsheimer

2001

458 pages

W. W. Norton & Company

Non-fiction

International Relations, Political Science

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Overview

The Tragedy of Great Power Politics presents a compelling theory of international relations known as offensive realism. Mearsheimer argues that the anarchic nature of the international system compels great powers to seek dominance for survival.

The book explains how states are inherently driven to maximize their power relative to others, leading to inevitable conflict and competition. Mearsheimer uses historical examples to illustrate how this dynamic has shaped global politics.

Through rigorous analysis, the book challenges more optimistic views of cooperation and peace, emphasizing the persistent threat of war among great powers. It remains a foundational text for understanding power politics and realism in international relations.

1
International system is anarchic with no central authority.
2
Great powers are rational actors seeking survival through power maximization.
3
Offensive realism explains why states pursue hegemony.
4
Conflict among great powers is inevitable due to security competition.
5
Balancing and buck-passing are strategies states use to manage threats.
6
Nuclear weapons do not eliminate the possibility of great power war.
7
Historical case studies support the theory of offensive realism.

Chapter 1: Introduction

Introduces the theory of offensive realism and outlines the book's central argument about great power politics.

Chapter 2: Anarchy and the Struggle for Power

Explores the anarchic international system and why it compels states to seek power for survival.

Chapter 3: The Logic of Offensive Realism

Details the assumptions and logic behind offensive realism as a theory of international relations.

Chapter 4: Great Power Behavior Since 1500

Analyzes historical cases to demonstrate how great powers have acted according to offensive realism.

Chapter 5: The Causes of War

Examines why wars occur among great powers despite the risks involved.

Chapter 6: The Future of Great Power Politics

Discusses the implications of offensive realism for contemporary and future international relations.

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Key Takeaways

Understand that power competition is a fundamental driver of international politics.

Recognize that states prioritize survival above all else in an anarchic system.

Expect that great powers will seek regional dominance to ensure security.

Be aware that cooperation among great powers is often temporary and strategic.

Analyze international conflicts through the lens of power balancing and security dilemmas.

Consider the limits of international institutions in preventing great power conflicts.

Use historical patterns to anticipate future geopolitical behavior.

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