Anarchy and the limits of cooperation: a realist critique of the newest liberal institutionalism

Joseph M. Grieco
1988 International Organization  
Anarchy and the limits of cooperation: a realist critique of the newest liberal institutionalism Joseph M. Grieco Realism has dominated international relations theory at least since World War II. 1 For realists, international anarchy fosters competition and conflict among states and inhibits their willingness to cooperate even when they share common interests. Realist theory also argues that international institutions are unable to mitigate anarchy's constraining effects on inter-state
more » ... on. Realism, then, presents a pessimistic analysis of the prospects for international cooperation and of the capabilities of international institutions. 2 For their helpful comments on this essay, I thank
doi:10.1017/s0020818300027715 fatcat:rt3cn3cqkfairk577ln3catx3m