Explain the key principles of political realism.

Political realism is a school of thought in political theory that emphasizes the importance of power, self-interest, and the pursuit of national interests in international relations. It is based on the belief that politics is a struggle for power and that states are the primary actors in the international system. The key principles of political realism can be summarized as follows:

1. State-centric view: Realism places the state at the center of analysis, considering it as the primary actor in international relations. States are seen as rational and self-interested entities that pursue their own national interests.

2. Power politics: Realists argue that power is the central currency in international relations. They believe that states seek to maximize their power and security in order to survive and thrive in a competitive international system. Power is often measured in terms of military capabilities, economic strength, and diplomatic influence.

3. Anarchy and self-help: Realists view the international system as anarchic, meaning that there is no central authority or global government to enforce rules and maintain order. In this context, states are left to rely on their own resources and capabilities to ensure their survival and protect their interests. This leads to a self-help mentality, where states prioritize their own security and act in their own self-interest.

4. National interest: Realists emphasize the pursuit of national interests as the primary motivation for states' actions. National interests are defined in terms of security, economic prosperity, and the preservation of sovereignty. Realists argue that states should prioritize their own interests over moral or ethical considerations.

5. Balance of power: Realists advocate for the maintenance of a balance of power among states as a means to prevent any single state from becoming too dominant. They believe that a balance of power helps to maintain stability and deter aggression, as no state would risk challenging a collective force of other states.

6. Pragmatism and skepticism: Realists adopt a pragmatic and skeptical approach to international relations. They are skeptical of the possibility of achieving universal moral principles or global harmony. Instead, they focus on understanding and navigating the realities of power politics in a complex and competitive world.

Overall, political realism provides a framework for understanding international relations based on the pursuit of power, self-interest, and the primacy of the state. It offers a realistic and pragmatic perspective on the complexities of international politics, emphasizing the importance of power dynamics and the pursuit of national interests.