“Theory of International Politics” by Kenneth Waltz, published in 1979, is a foundational work in international relations that introduces the concept of neorealism or structural realism. Waltz argues that the behavior of states in the international system is determined primarily by the structure of the system itself, which is anarchic—there is no overarching authority to govern states. In this system, states are the main actors, and their primary goal is survival. As a result, states act rationally to maximize their security, leading to a self-help system where power balances are crucial to maintaining stability.

Unlike classical realism, which focuses on human nature and the inherent desire for power, Waltz’s neorealism emphasizes the distribution of power (whether unipolar, bipolar, or multipolar) as the key factor in understanding state behavior. He argues that bipolar systems, like the Cold War, are more stable because there are fewer major powers to balance against each other. Waltz’s theory laid the groundwork for much of modern IR theory, influencing debates on the nature of power, international order, and state interactions.

4o