John Mearsheimer: The False Promise of International Institutions Essay (Article Review)

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John Mearsheimer notes that western policymakers have recognized the importance of international organizations in promoting international peace. However, he observes that in attempts to create such policies, policymakers have often ignored the concept of a balance-of-power in creating global institutions. He reviews two major schools of thoughts, which include institutionalists and realists.

Under these two theories, there several sub-theories from various sources. Mearsheimer presents opposing views of the two theories, including how they work to change institutions. He also identifies the fundamental flaws of each theory and their lack of empirical evidence.

The most important factor to recognize, is that the two major theories aim to change state behaviors. Although institutions do not work as these theories depict, policymakers and academics have noted the importance of these theories in formulating policies that shape global agendas (Mearsheimer 5).

The PowerPoint presentation covers all theories in international organizations, but provides brief accounts. This is suitable for a quick overview of theories that shape international institutions. It also presents realists and institutionalists as the two major theories, which have sub-theories from different fields (Module 2, International Organizations 1-21).

Realists want to use their states to promote international agenda. On the other hand, institutionalists believe that states are the key to collective action, and institutional arrangements can shape behaviors of states.

These theories try to show how international organizations should function in an ideal situation. As a result, they aim to alter state behaviors. These theories assume that institutions have power over states. Major international organizations aim to foster global peace and economic interests.

These theories continue to influence different states in different manners. However, they fail to ensure that there is a balance-of-power when formulating policies for global institutions.

Mearsheimer’s article provides a comprehensive account of two major theories and their branches. It also shows the role of these theories in shaping international organizations and institutions. Further, the article recognizes that theories are different with the realities of most institutions and states. Mearsheimer’s article draws its contents from past studies, observations, and real-life events.

This allows the reader to identify how such theories relate to practices in international organizations, states, and institutions. The article also shows opposing views on each theory. In addition, it warns readers about the danger of relying on these theories to formulate policies.

In most cases, the policy may fail because these theories do not reflect the harsh reality of the world. This article criticizes all theories, but it does not offer an alternative on the best approach of promoting international organizations and the global agenda.

The PowerPoint presentation provides a brief account of most theories in international organizations. It shows both the strengths and weaknesses of each theoretical perspective. This presentation also shows that theoretical concepts for international organizations come from different disciplines and fields. Being a PowerPoint presentation, the content lacks details and support from other sources.

These readings present brief but precise theories that guide international organizations and their operations. They recognize both the strengths and weaknesses of each theory. All readings present theoretical perspectives, which guide states, institutions, and international organizations on issues of global importance.

These theories work differently, but with the same goal of transforming states and international organizations for peace and other developmental agendas.

Works Cited

Mearsheimer, John. “The False Promise of International Institutions.” International Security 19.3 (1995): 5-49. Print.

“Module 2, International Organizations.” 2013. Microsoft PowerPoint file.

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