How to Survive in a Hostile World: Power, Politics, and the Case for Realism

In this short, spirited book, Porter summarizes the core intellectual beliefs of the realist tradition of international relations. Realism offers a simple set of timeless insights: international life is intrinsically dangerous, the shadow of war is always present, foreigners can never be fully trusted, power is the currency of world politics, and, in a world of anarchy, the pursuit of the national interest is not just a necessity but an ethical obligation. Idealists and cosmopolitans may see realism as an amoral or immoral worldview that stokes violence and warmongering. But Porter sees realism’s focus on the preparation for war as prudent. The doctrine’s morality is based on the belief that escape from a fearful, grasping world is impossible, so it is best to seek a modicum of stability through the artful pursuit of state interests. Porter admits that realism can fall prey to excess, when imprudent leaders exaggerate the fear of others to justify violence and barbarism. His hope is that realism can remain a useful framework through which states can manage the dangers of anarchy.