by Thucydides, an ancient Greek historian (circa 460–400 BCE), is often regarded as one of the earliest thinkers to articulate ideas that align with *political realism, particularly in his work *History of the Peloponnesian War. His analysis of the conflict between Athens and Sparta provides timeless insights into power politics, human nature, and the behavior of states, which resonate strongly with the principles of modern political realism. Here’s how Thucydides connects to political realism:
1. Focus on Power and Security
- Thucydides: In his account of the Peloponnesian War, Thucydides emphasizes that the primary driver of the conflict was the growth of Athenian power and the fear it instilled in Sparta. He famously states that “the strong do what they can, and the weak suffer what they must,” highlighting the centrality of power in international relations.
- Political Realism: This aligns with the realist view that states are primarily concerned with power and security. Realists argue that states act to maximize their power and influence to ensure their survival in an anarchic international system.
2. Anarchy and the Absence of a Higher Authority
- Thucydides: Thucydides describes a world where there is no overarching authority to enforce rules or mediate disputes between city-states (poleis). In this anarchic environment, states must rely on their own capabilities to protect their interests.
- Political Realism: Realists similarly view the international system as anarchic, with no global government to regulate state behavior. This lack of authority forces states to prioritize self-help and power accumulation.
3. Human Nature and Self-Interest
- Thucydides: Thucydides portrays human nature as self-interested, competitive, and driven by fear, honor, and interest. These motivations shape the behavior of both individuals and states.
- Political Realism: Classical realists like Hans Morgenthau also emphasize the role of human nature in politics, arguing that the desire for power and dominance is inherent in human behavior and drives state actions.
4. The Melian Dialogue: Realpolitik in Action
- *Thucydides: The *Melian Dialogue is one of the most famous passages in Thucydides’ work. It recounts the negotiations between Athens and the neutral island of Melos, where Athens demands Melos’ submission, arguing that justice and morality are irrelevant in the face of power. The Athenians assert that “the strong do what they can, and the weak suffer what they must.”
- *Political Realism: This dialogue is often cited as a classic example of *realpolitik, where power and expediency take precedence over moral considerations. Realists argue that states often act in their self-interest, even if it means disregarding ethical principles.
5. Fear, Honor, and Interest as Motivations
- Thucydides: Thucydides identifies three key motivations for state behavior: fear, honor, and interest. For example, Sparta’s fear of Athenian power, Athens’ desire for honor and glory, and the pursuit of material interests all play significant roles in the outbreak and conduct of the war.
- Political Realism: Realists similarly argue that states are motivated by a combination of security concerns (fear), prestige (honor), and material gains (interest). These motivations drive states to compete for power and influence.
6. Skepticism Toward Idealism and Morality
- Thucydides: Thucydides is skeptical of idealistic or moralistic explanations for state behavior. He focuses on the harsh realities of power politics, showing how states often act out of necessity rather than principle.
- Political Realism: Realists share this skepticism, arguing that moral and legal norms are often subordinated to the demands of power and survival in international relations.
7. The Role of Necessity (Ananke)
- *Thucydides: Thucydides frequently emphasizes the concept of *necessity (ananke), suggesting that states are often compelled to act in certain ways due to the constraints of their environment and the actions of other states.
- Political Realism: Realists similarly argue that the anarchic structure of the international system creates constraints and imperatives that shape state behavior. States must act in ways that ensure their survival, even if those actions are morally questionable.
Conclusion:
Thucydides is often considered the “father of political realism” because his analysis of the Peloponnesian War provides a foundational framework for understanding power politics, human nature, and the behavior of states in an anarchic system. His emphasis on power, self-interest, and the absence of morality in international relations resonates strongly with the principles of modern political realism. Realists like Hans Morgenthau and Kenneth Waltz have drawn on Thucydides’ insights to develop their theories, making him a timeless figure in the study of international relations
