Question

Morgenthau's principles of political realism are:
(A) Politics is rooted in permanent and unchanging human nature which is basically self-centered, self-regarding, and self-interested
(B) Politics is an autonomous sphere of action and cannot therefore be reduced to morals
(C) International Politics is an arena of conflicting self-interests
(D) The ethics of international relations is situational ethics which is very different from private morality
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. B, C and D only
• B. A, B, C and D
• C. A, B and C only
• D. A, B and D only

Hint:

Morgenthau’s political realism focuses on the unchanging nature of human behavior and emphasizes national interest and power over morality.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Morgenthau's Core Principles.
Hans J. Morgenthau, a key figure in realist theory, outlined core principles of political realism. These principles highlight the significance of power, human nature, and the separation of politics from moral judgments.
Step 2: Option Evaluation.
- (A) Human nature as the foundation of politics: Morgenthau posited that inherent self-interest and the pursuit of power drive human behavior, thus shaping political dynamics.
- (B) Politics as an independent domain: Morgenthau contended that political considerations should not be subordinated to moral dictates, advocating for an autonomous perspective.
- (C) International politics as a clash of self-interests: Morgenthau underscored that the global stage is characterized by states vying for their own self-interests.
- (D) Situational ethics in international relations: Realist ethics, unlike personal morality, are context-dependent, prioritizing national interest and power in decision-making.
Step 3: Summary.
Option (2) A, B, C, and D is correct, as all listed principles are fundamental to Morgenthau's theory of political realism.