Possibility of harmony and balance. (OCR A-Level Politics): Revision Notes

34.2.2 Possibility of harmony and balance.

The Liberal Perspective on Anarchy

The Role of Democracy, Commercial Exchange, and International Law

Liberals argue that competition among states occurs within a framework where democracy, commercial exchange based on cosmopolitan law (such as free trade), and a system of international law provide the foundation for global peace and harmony. This concept is often referred to as the "Kantian Triangle," named after the philosopher Immanuel Kant, who envisioned a world where democratic governance, economic interdependence, and international institutions work together to prevent conflict. Additionally, the ideas of Hugo Grotius, a foundational figure in international law, support the notion that a system of laws and agreements between states can regulate behaviour and promote stability.

Optimism Stemming from Human Rationality

The liberal optimism about the possibility of harmony and balance in global politics is rooted in their belief in the rational qualities of individuals. Liberals contend that human beings, and by extension states, are capable of rational thought and are incentivized to cooperate rather than engage in conflict. This cooperation is driven by the mutual benefits that arise from peaceful interactions, such as economic prosperity, security, and the protection of human rights.

Challenging Realist Assumptions

Liberals challenge several key assumptions of realism, particularly the inevitability of the security dilemma, the likelihood of conflict, and the prioritisation of security above all other issues.

• Security Dilemma: Liberals argue that the security dilemma—where states' efforts to increase their security lead to increased insecurity for others, potentially leading to conflict—is not inevitable. Through trust-building measures, transparency, and international institutions, states can overcome the security dilemma and achieve mutual security.
• Likelihood of Conflict: Liberals reject the notion that conflict is an inevitable outcome of international relations. They believe that through the spread of democracy, economic interdependence, and adherence to international law, the likelihood of conflict can be significantly reduced. The interconnectedness fostered by these factors creates a world where states have more to gain from cooperation than from conflict.
• Security vs. Other Issues: Realists often place security at the top of the international agenda, sometimes at the expense of other important issues like climate change and human rights. Liberals, however, argue that these issues should not be sidelined. They contend that global challenges such as climate change and human rights are intrinsically linked to security and that addressing them is essential for long-term global stability and peace.

Conclusion

The possibility of harmony and balance in global politics, according to liberal theory, is achievable through the promotion of democracy, economic interdependence, and international law. These elements create a system where states are incentivized to cooperate, reducing the likelihood of conflict and mitigating the security dilemma. While liberals acknowledge the anarchical nature of the international system, they remain optimistic that through rationality and cooperation, peaceful and harmonious world order is attainable. This contrasts sharply with the more pessimistic view of realists, who see conflict and competition as inevitable. Liberals believe that by addressing a broad range of global issues, including climate change and human rights, the international community can build a more balanced and secure world.