Realism is an international relations theory that has been extensively used to explain how nations respond to potential threats such as climate change, war etc. Nonetheless, climate change, which is a relatively new aspect has become a major point of debate on the global political arena. There is a general agreement among scientists that the global deforestation, burning of fossil fuels into the air have major implications to global warming at significant levels. A rise of global temperatures above 2°C is poised to generate a dangerous effect on the world as a whole. The change will interfear with regular weather patterns, consequently disrupting the lives of many people. This paper explores some of the challenges posed by realism theory when addressing the challenges associated with climate change.
What problems do realism exhibit as it regards the discussion on climate change?
1)Political Implausibility of Collective Actions
i) States have a tendency of favoring moves of raising their own adaptive capabilities owing to the fact that domestic adaptations appears to be more secure and devoid of dilemmas associated with international adaptation and mitigation[5].
ii) Some countries may not have the capability or the resources to address climate challenges on their own; hence requiring the support of others[6].
iii) International protocols and institutions which are inappropriately designed, such as the Kyoto Protocal prevent certain states from realizing their environmental objective[7].
Strong Correlation between Energy Consumption and Economic Growth
From this discussion, it is clear that the central tenet of Realism assumption in international relations is the focus on the state as the primary actor in international politics. Further, the main force that shape state action is the assumed anarchy inherent in the international system. A major problem associated with this theory in addressing climate change is the concern of states with their own security, and power, often at the expense of other states. There is also lack of political goodwill by certain states which regard climate challenges as secondary to other national issues. What is more? Some states do not have the capability or resources to address climate change and hence; they would require the support of other sovereign and powerful states in this endeavor. Poor institutional frameworks and guidelines have also added to the dilemma; practically making it hard for some states to take part in climate protection measures.
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