Karen_A._Mingst,_Ivan_M._Arregu_n-Toft]_Essentia

Developing the Answers 11

does not help us make or implement policy. Nevertheless, both history and philoso-
phy are key tools for international relations scholars.

the scientific Method: behavioralism

In the 1950s, some scholars began to draw upon one understanding of the nature of
humans and on history to develop a more scientific approach to the study of international
relations. They built upon the philosophical assumption that man tends to act in pre-
dictable ways. If individuals act in predictable ways, might not states do the same? Are
there recurrent patterns to how states behave? Are there subtle patterns to diplomatic

Contributions of Phi los o Phers

to internAtionAl relAtions theory

Plato

(427–347 bce)

Greek

Argued that the life force in man is intelligent. Only a

few people can have insight into what is good;

society should submit to the authority of these

philosopher- kings. Many of these ideas are

developed in The Republic.

Aristotle

(384–322 bce)

Greek

Addressed the prob lem of order in the individual

Greek city- state. The first to use the comparative

method of research, observing multiple points in time

and suggesting explanations for the patterns found.

thomas hobbes

(1588–1679)

english

In Leviathan described life in a state of nature as

solitary, selfish, and brutish. Individuals and society

can escape from the state of nature through a unitary

state, a leviathan.

Jean- Jacques

rousseau

(1712–78)

french

In “Discourse on the Origin and Foundations of

In equality among Men,” described the state of nature

in both national and international society. Argued

that the solution to the state of nature is the social

contract, whereby individuals gather in small

communities where the “general will” is realized.

immanuel Kant

(1724–1804)

German

Associated with the idealist or utopian school of

thought. In Idea for a Universal History and Perpetual

Peace, advocated a world federation of republics

bound by the rule of law.

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