Theoretical Underpinning of two International Relations Theories - Essay Example

On the other hand, in “After America” Brzezinski looks at the imminent fall of the United States from being the leading power in the world (1). The writer focuses on which states are likely to take over from the United States, although he emphasizes that a unipolar world is no longer possible (1). There is also an analysis of how other states will react to the fall of the United states, for example, stating that most second world countries will seek to form regional blocks. Brzezinski is pessimistic about the future, without the United States at the top, and argues that power struggles will ensue between states, especially over regional politics (1).

All the same, there is a correspondence between the two articles in that they both consider the future of international relations in the next ten or so years. In addition, the two articles point out the looming power gap that will be caused by the exit of the United States from the apex of global relations. Personally, Slaughter’s argument is more compelling since she gives room for non-biased assessment of international relations, after the end of the united state’s hegemony (1). . argument, not because it is more liberal and thus more optimistic but because her assessment of international relations seems better researched, and the solutions given to the various problems seem more realistic.

Considering Brzezinski’s argument, in comparison with that of Slaughter, it is clear that the theoretical assumptions between these two writers are different (1). While Slaughter views the next ten years using liberalist lenses, Brzezinski seems to be more oriented towards the realist perspective (1). Nevertheless, both articles seem to make valid points about the future of international relations as both concur that a unilateral system is no longer possible. This has helped me understand why there are so many countries on the rise, including China, Japan, and India.

This phenomenon already tells of a multipolar international arena in the next 20 years. This is regardless of whether the world is viewed from a realist or liberalist point of view. Admittedly, the United States will cease to be the super power in the next few years. This means that the United States will no longer be able to influence international policies. Therefore, it is important that the United States revises its domestic, regional, and international policies, in order to be able to with stand the impending change.

Works cited Brzezinski, Zbigniew. After America, 2012. Web. 18 June 2013. Available at www.foreignpolicy.com. Slaughter, Anne-Marie. Problems Will Be Global -- And Solutions Will Be, Too, 2011. Web. 18 June 2013. Available at