Structural Realism and Systemic Geopolitical Analysis: Convergences and Divergences

This book explores the comparative study of structural realism and systemic geopolitical analysis, discussing their scientific fields, philosophical and cognitive roots, and their relation as complementary theoretical tools or disjunctive and contrapuntal. It aims to provide an untainted descriptive analysis of interstate relations and their framework. The debate on interstate relations has a long-term philosophical background, rooted in the juxtaposition between sein and sollen.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 122 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2021
Publisher: Nova Science Publishers Inc

This book delves into a comprehensive comparative analysis of the theoretical and hypothetical aspects of structural realism in international relations theory and systemic geopolitical analysis. It explores whether these fields, which have evolved separately, share common philosophical and cognitive roots or if their relationship is disjunctive and contrapuntal. The central objective of this research is to conduct an untainted descriptive analysis devoid of ontologically groundless claims. The debate on interstate relations and the framework upon which they are structured has a long history, with philosophical underpinnings evident in the juxtaposition between those referring to sein and those expressing the sollen. This research aims to elucidate the converging and diverging perspectives between the neorealist approach to international relations theory and systemic geopolitical analysis.

Structural realism, as a theoretical framework, emphasizes the importance of power, institutions, and the structure of the international system in shaping states' behavior and outcomes. It posits that states are primarily motivated by their interests and seek to maximize their power and security within the international system. Structural realism emphasizes the importance of studying the interrelationships and dynamics between states, as well as the factors that influence their behavior, such as geography, resources, and military capabilities.

On the other hand, systemic geopolitical analysis is a broader approach that seeks to understand the complex interplay of global forces and processes that shape the world. It emphasizes the role of geography, history, culture, and ideology in shaping international relations and the global political economy. Systemic geopolitical analysis also considers the interactions between different systems, such as the global political system, the global economic system, and the global environmental system.

One of the key differences between structural realism and systemic geopolitical analysis is their focus on different levels of analysis. Structural realism focuses primarily on the state level, while systemic geopolitical analysis takes a more holistic approach, considering the interconnections and dynamics at multiple levels, including the global, regional, and national levels.

Another difference between the two approaches is their theoretical framework. Structural realism is often associated with realist theory, which emphasizes the importance of power, security, and the pursuit of self-interest. Systemic geopolitical analysis, on the other hand, draws on a range of theoretical perspectives, including postcolonialism, globalization theory, and critical geopolitics.

Despite these differences, there are also areas of overlap and convergence between structural realism and systemic geopolitical analysis. Both approaches recognize the importance of power and institutions in shaping international relations, and both emphasize the role of geography and history in shaping the global political economy. Additionally, both approaches recognize the importance of studying the interactions between different systems and the complex dynamics that arise from these interactions.

In conclusion, structural realism and systemic geopolitical analysis are two distinct theoretical frameworks that offer different perspectives on international relations and the global political economy. While they have evolved separately, there are also areas of overlap and convergence between the two approaches. By studying the theoretical and hypothetical issues of structural realism and systemic geopolitical analysis, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that shape the world and the challenges that we face in the 21st century.

ISBN-13: 9781536191967