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Who among the following political thinkers consider the anarchic self-help system to be a compelling factor for States to maximise their relative power positions?

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John Mearsheimer’s offensive realism highlights the importance of power maximization in an anarchic international system.
Updated On: Mar 5, 2026
  • Hans J. Morgenthau
  • John Mearsheimer
  • Kenneth Waltz
  • Marysia Zalewski
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Theories of International Relations.
John Mearsheimer, a prominent international relations theorist, contends that the anarchic self-help system compels states to maximize their relative power for survival. This is a core tenet of his offensive realism theory.
Step 2: Analysis of options.
- (1) Hans J. Morgenthau: Morgenthau, a realist, concentrates on the balance of power and human nature, rather than the anarchic international system as the primary driver of state behavior.
- (2) John Mearsheimer: Mearsheimer's offensive realism suggests that anarchy necessitates states to continuously seek power to ensure their survival.
- (3) Kenneth Waltz: Waltz, a central figure in neorealism, highlights the structure of the international system but does not emphasize the aggressive pursuit of power in the same way as Mearsheimer.
- (4) Marysia Zalewski: Zalewski's expertise lies in gender and international relations, not specifically the anarchic self-help system.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (2) John Mearsheimer, because he stresses the role of anarchy in forcing states to maximize their relative power.
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