Class: ELU1100 - NADM-0008G (2023.

2)

1. Realism vs. Idealism in International Relations

Firstly, Realism is a philosophical perspective with Nicolau Maquiavel as its pioneer. He

depicted politics as it truly is, without idealism. Realism acknowledges that states are primarily
concerned with maximizing their power. They engage in an ongoing struggle for power,
prestige, and the pursuit of their national interests. Realists emphasize the importance of
protecting our borders from foreign threats, as self-reliance is paramount since no one else will
safeguard us. Realism is the approach to exert influence among neighboring states and other
international actors. It recognizes international relations as a realm marked by anarchy.

On the other hand, Idealism, led by Emannuel Kant, embraces a different outlook. Idealism
acknowledges the existence of a global community founded on moral values and progressive
ideas. It believes that, through moral principles, we can create a stable, egalitarian, and peace-
promoting global community where states engage in harmonious interactions. It represents an
idealized vision of what politics could and should be.

2. International Norms vs. Power-Driven International Relations

International Norms:

- Essentially, these are the 'rules of the game' – the guidelines and principles that dictate how
countries should behave.

- They emerge from treaties, conventions, and what's known as customary international law.

- Example from my Studies: The Geneva Conventions stand out – they dictate how wars should
be fought and emphasize the protection of civilians.

Power-Driven Politics:

It's a more cynical view of the world, where nations act to maximize their own interests, even if
it sometimes means ignoring international norms.

Personal Observation: The situation in the South China Sea, with China building artificial
islands, is a classic example of power politics challenging established norms of territorial
sovereignty.
3. Deciphering Globalization

Globalization: It's the incredible process that's making our world smaller. Thanks to technology,
transport, and communication, cultures and economies are intertwining like never before.

Its Core Components:

- Economic: The rise of free trade, huge multinational corporations, and the complex global
financial system.

- Cultural: We're seeing cultures blend and mix. Whether it's through the media, people
moving around the world, or the global popularity of cuisines.

- Technological: Technology, especially the internet, has changed everything. It's connecting us
in ways we could only have dreamt of a few decades ago.

Linking to Our Classes: Our discussions often revolved around the challenges and
opportunities of globalization. How it's affecting nations, giving rise to non-state actors, and
the monumental task of governing in this interconnected world.

4. Reflecting on Lord Acton's Words

The phrase, "A country has no friends, only interests," has been a recurring theme in our
studies. It's a stark reminder of how states prioritize.

Examples from Discussions:

- U.S.-Saudi Relationship: This alliance is intriguing. Despite glaring differences, shared

interests in oil and regional politics have bound them together.

- The Russia-China Dynamics: Historical tensions haven't stopped Russia and China from
finding common ground, especially in their approach towards the U.S.

Connecting to Class Discussions: We've had lively debates about how alliances shift and
friendships in the international arena are often fleeting, based on the shifting sands of national
interests.