Introduction to international relations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Introduction to international relations - Essay Example Neo-classical realism is a combination of both classical and neo realism that accepts both system level and state level natures. Liberalism is a state level theory that believes in the goodness of society. It argues that states try to create peace and cooperation. The last theory is constructivism that claims that the reason behind a particular state behavior is the unique features of the state. Admittedly, in order to understand the America-Vietnam relation, a mere state level theory will be gravely insufficient. The best way to understand the U.S- Vietnam relation throughout the history is to analyze it in the light of a system level theory as the relation was, and is, largely shaped by the international power equations, not because of the special features existed in the nature of America or Vietnam. In addition, neither America nor Vietnam showed even the slightest hint of benevolence, thus proving the unsuitability of constructivism. Thus, the theory that can best explain the rel ation is neo-realism, and a little bit of force can make classical realism too fit for explaining the relations, though inadequate. The tenets of neo-realism Neo-realism is a system level theory and it does not take the individual character of states into consideration. According to neo-realism, the reactions of the states are the results of fluctuations in the international system. As there is no international government that controls the actions of governments, there is total anarchy in the international sphere that makes states always vulnerable to the atrocities by others. Thus, states are always in the effort to gain power in order to protect themselves. However, a rise in power and influence results in more rivalry and more unrest. In this international arena, states have no way other than either defending themselves or attacking their rivals first. A look into history will prove that the American-Vietnam relation was mainly the result of the power movements in the internation al sphere which was mainly bipolar in nature. The America-Vietnam Relation A look into history proves that the American-Vietnam relation can be better understood in the light of neo-realist perspective. The neo-realism, similar to classical realism, argues that all states try to amass power, and that while seeking to increase their own power, they seek to reduce the power of their enemies too. In addition, it is argued in the theory that such states consider other states with power as their enemies. When there is equality of power, peace exists as the players are equal in resources. According neo-realism, the nature of the international system gives birth to power struggles among nations. As Glenn, Howlett, and Poore (2004, 22) state, since there is no world government that controls the movements of national governments, there is total anarchy, and the governments do everything they can to remain secure; hence, when there is a perceived threat to their sovereignty, states either att ack first hand or defend themselves using any possible means they have access to. Admittedly, a look into the America-Vietnam relations will prove that the American intervention in Vietnam was the result of the international power relations that existed at that time, and at that point of time, US had no other option other than the military action. Admittedly, the American interest in the Far East is as old as the National