Question

compare and contrast constructive with realism and liberalism

Answer 1

Compare and contrast constructive with realism and liberalism

Realism acts under two assumptions i.e. statism and individualism. This theory seems to be very reasonable and feasible theory. Realism is different from constructivism and liberalism.

Contrast between realism and constructivism

• Realism is also called political realism which includes the theories which emphasizes the role of state, center, public and national interest in world politics. It focuses on communication and connection between the international political authorities.

On the other hand constructivism is more complex and complicated theory which focuses more on the human ideas and human consciousness. The basic components are holism and idealism. Constructivism focuses that the ideas should be delivered and shared. Whereas, realism completely disregards this statements. Constructivism understands the social construction as an essential need in the society which aims to analysis and evaluates various elements of the society like culture, tradition; law etc. therefore, Realism theory is having the inability to address various issues concerning war and society and proves to be dominant theory for world politics.

• Comparison of constructivism with liberalism

Constructivism is a society based theory which challenges liberalism and realism on many aspects. This theory describes the international relations to be an essential matter for the society and focuses on the interests and ideas to be shared and communicated. Therefore, this is a key element to explain the values, ideas, culture and give them a shape.  

Also, liberalism is a theory which protects and enhances the liberty of individual to be the central problem of politics. All the Liberals have a belief that it is important to protect the individuals from being harmed by other individuals for the government. But they also relate the liberty given to an individual with various aspects.

Both the theories are different from each other as constructivism is concerned with the role of shaping the international system of sharing ideas. On the other hand, liberalism is related with economic and political liberty of individual at domestic level only.