Neoclassical Realism in International Relations

Neoclassical realism represents an adaptive framework within international relations theory that integrates the structural insights of neorealism with key domestic variables to explain state behaviour. At its core, it posits that systemic pressures—such as the distribution of power among great powers—generate incentives and constraints for all states. Yet these pressures take effect only through intervening domestic factors: political leadership, elite cohesion, state extraction capacity and societal perceptions all mediate how external threats and opportunities are interpreted and translated into foreign policy choices. By emphasising both external systemic forces and internal political dynamics, neoclassical realism explains variations in alliance formation, conflict initiation, resource mobilisation and grand strategy. The approach has been applied across diverse regional settings, from great‐power competition to middle powers and small states, offering nuanced accounts of why similarly situated states adopt divergent policies. Its global significance lies in illuminating how domestic politics shape responses to rising powers, territorial disputes and security dilemmas, thereby informing diplomatic strategy, defence planning and foreign policy forecasting.

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Neoclassical Realism in International Relations publication trend

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Technical terms

Systemic factors: Incentives and constraints arising from the international distribution of power.

Intervening variables: Domestic political and social factors that mediate between external pressures and foreign policy decisions.

Structural modifiers: Mechanisms by which domestic historical experience alters a state’s perception of systemic incentives.

Two‐level game: Analytical model describing how leaders simultaneously negotiate on domestic and international stages.

Relative power: A state’s capabilities measured against those of other states, influencing its strategic options.

References

1. Is high-intensity conflict escalation inevitable in the future? A two-level game analysis on the causes of US-Iran risky rivalry. European Journal of Futures Research (2024).
2. Neorealism, neoclassical realism and the problem(s) of history. International Relations (2021).
3. Mobilizing resources and signaling intentions: a neoclassical realist analysis of Japan’s domestic and international instrumentalization of the Senkaku Islands dispute and China’s maritime assertiveness. Revista Brasileira de Política Internacional (2021).