The agreement between Russia and Great Britain in 1907 was inevitable?
Current version: 29 Sep 2009 | 08:36 | mikearcher87
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Yes, because... International level: Structure of the International System
The structure of International relations as the primary level of analysis dominates neo-realist theory. In neo-realism the international systems structure is decentralised and anarchic, the states are rational unitary actors in which they act individualistically, selfishly to keep as many options open as possible.[1] If realism or neo-realism is the correct then the state will respond rationally to changes in the balance of power by balancing the rising power.
- ^ Kenneth Waltz, Theory of International politics, New York, 1979, pp.88, 91.
Whilst this may be the case, Mearshiemer has pointed to other behavioural reactions to imbalances of power at the system-level, incuding bandwagoning and buck-passing. Moreover, if it were rational for Britain and Russia to attempt to balance the threat of Germany, the result was surely less than they had desired, with the deaths of millions upon millions being the result of an isolated and cornered German people.