Neoliberalism ( English neoliberalism ) or neoliberal institutionalism [1] is a school in the theory of international relations that develops the ideas of a liberal-idealistic political paradigm after the Second World War. This theory argues that international political institutions can allow states to successfully cooperate in international relations. The most prominent representatives of neoliberalism are Robert Keohane and Joseph Nye .
The revival of the positions of the liberal-idealistic paradigm, eroded during the Cold War, occurred after the collapse of the bipolar system of international relations . At the same time, the initial paradigm in view of significant changes in the international arena (strengthening international integration processes; the emergence of new states on the political map of the world, non-traditional security threats; processes related to globalization ) underwent a profound transformation that led to the formation of neoliberalism ideas [2] .
Neoliberalism in international relations is not identical to neoliberalism in economic theory - they belong to different areas of the social sciences, although they have common features, for example, the use of a similar methodology ( game theory , etc.). In addition, their leading idea can be formulated as follows: the intensification and worldwide spread of the free market, both extensively - on an international scale, and intensively - in all areas of society. Thus, neoliberalism shows a fundamental relationship with globalization , especially in the economic sphere. Penetrating into the global economy, a free international market begins to directly influence international relations - the role of transnational corporations is growing. In these conditions, state interests begin to play an important, but not a paramount role.
Features
The distinctive features of neoliberalism, as one of the theories of international relations, are the following:
- As in the classical liberal paradigm, neoliberals believe that the state is not the only participant in international relations. The role of such non-traditional factors as transnational corporations, international organizations, terrorist and criminal organizations, individuals, etc. is growing.
- The increase in the number of participants in international relations has a number of negative consequences, first of all, the number of sources increases and the variety of threats to society and all of humanity grows. The best solution in this situation is the concept of cooperative security. Thus, in the center of neoliberalism are the problems of international security and the rejection of war as an instrument of international politics.
- The main goal of the participants in international relations, according to the advocates of neoliberalism, is international security, while representatives of the liberal-idealistic paradigm pointed to pluralism of goals with the priority of universal ideals and human values.
- The most important condition for achieving international stability, world order and social progress is the development of international cooperation, which also contributes to the growth of economic well-being.
- The main means of international relations are the dissemination of the ideals of liberal democracy and the market, the creation of international organizations, the development of international law and cooperation.
- The center of gravity is transferred from international law and international organizations, whose activities are often fruitless, to international morality. At the same time, the main criteria of morality are liberal democracy and human rights, on the basis of which in the future it is possible to create a new world order in the form of a global civil society and global market.
Neoliberalism and Neorealism
In its theoretical constructions, neoliberalism approaches neorealism , while the liberal-idealistic paradigm is in confrontation with it [3] .
The similarities between neoliberalism and neorealism:
- Rationalism. At the center of both paradigms is a rational politician guided by rational calculation. For neoliberals, calculation is determined, first of all, by considerations of welfare and security, for neo-realists, by considerations of power.
- Both neoliberals and neo-realists believe that national interest lies at the heart of international relations.
- Both paradigms study which of the participants in international relations is in a better position [3] .
Differences between neoliberalism and neorealism:
- According to neoliberals, the anarchy of international relations (lack of supreme power) is surmountable, while neo-realists believe that it is not.
- Neoliberals believe that the benefits of international cooperation are absolute, that is, cooperation is always beneficial. According to neorealists, the benefit is relative, since no state will accept less absolute benefits than any other.
- The reason for international cooperation for neoliberals is maximum economic prosperity, for neo-realists - military security.
- According to neorealists, the behavior of the state is determined by systematic coercions and restrictions, as well as their real capabilities and abilities. The intentions of states are uncertain, therefore they cannot be used as an analysis tool. Neoliberals do not deny the importance of the real capabilities of states, but they believe that state intentions play an important role, so they should always be taken into account [4] .
Notes
- ↑ Sutch, Peter, Elias, 2006, Juanita, International Relations: The Basics, Routledge p.11
- ↑ Tsygankov P. A. Chapter 5. Modern schools and trends in the theory of international relations. The dispute of neorealism and neoliberalism. Neoliberalism // Theory of International Relations. - M .: Gardariki, 2003 .-- S. 132. - 590 p.
- ↑ 1 2 Tsygankov P. A. Chapter 5. Modern schools and directions in the theory of international relations. The dispute of neorealism and neoliberalism. Neoliberalism // Theory of International Relations. - M .: Gardariki, 2003 .-- S. 132-136. - 590 s.
- ↑ Tsygankov P. A. Chapter 5. Modern schools and trends in the theory of international relations. The dispute of neorealism and neoliberalism. The main provisions of the dispute of neorealism and neoliberalism // Theory of International Relations. - M .: Gardariki, 2003 .-- S. 136-140. - 590 s.