Counterbalance
82 | The Wisdom of the Ancients (feat. Jakub Grygiel)
Apr 11, 2024
Joining the discussion is Jakub Grygiel, a Catholic University professor and former member of the Trump administration's Office of Policy Planning, specializing in grand strategy. He explores the evolution of realism in international relations and its critical application to modern geopolitical issues. The conversation critiques U.S. foreign policy, delves into nationalism versus globalism, and highlights the intersection of religion and politics. Jakub also recommends essential readings to understand historical contexts and their relevance to contemporary diplomacy.
54:45
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Quick takeaways
- The historical context of realism in international relations highlights the inherent exercise of power and state responsibility to protect citizens.
- The tension between state action and perceived legitimacy complicates effective responses to global threats amidst diverse ideological challenges.
Deep dives
Understanding Realism in Foreign Policy
Realism, in the context of international relations, emphasizes that politics is inherently about the exercise of power. It dates back to ancient civilizations, highlighting the dangerous nature of political interactions and the necessity of states to respond to threats. This worldview encompasses a variety of perspectives, allowing for diverse interpretations and policy prescriptions among realists. Notably, historical figures like St. Augustine have contributed to the foundational ideas of realism, underlining the importance of state responsibility to defend its citizens while acknowledging the complexities of moral considerations in political actions.
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