Realists argue that war and conflict is inevitable based on human nature AO2 Realist thinkers such as Morgenthau argue humans are self centred and that humans pursue their interests above and beyond the interests of others which will inevitably lead to conflict between states which are ruled by people Some realists blame the anarchical nature of a state dominated system for war and conflict AO2 The realist perspective supports the idea that there is anarchy, reflected in never ending and numerous power struggles and conflicts between states, unregulated by external forces The Security Dilemma is seen as increasing the likelihood of war and conflict AO2 The Security Dilemma occurs when one state takes action to increase its security leading to other states following suit which in turn leads to unstable arms races and then to war and conflict Liberals are more optimistic on human nature and believe that states can peacefully coexist AO2 Liberals argue that individuals are altruistic and capable of selfless concern for others and that states, particularly democracies will see a growing value in cooperation in order to reduce the likelihood of war and conflict Some liberals see a growth in complex interdependence as reducing the likelihood of war and conflict AO2 Complex interdependence describes how states are increasingly linked through international organisations, trade and the need to resolve global issues which cannot be resolved at a state level, thus complex interdependence makes war and conflict far less likely between states Synoptic content –When analysing core political ideas, candidates may refer to: Conservatism core ideas and principles and how they relate to human nature, the state, society and the economy Socialism core ideas and how they relate to human nature, the state, society and the economy Liberalism core ideas and how they relate to human nature, the state, society and the economy Hobbes – and the consequences of this for the state system and for likelihood of cooperation, his negative view of human nature and the dangers to civil society Greater optimism on human nature linked to the natural relationship among humans being cooperation and work for the common good – Marx – which makes the idea of a global society likely. Emphasis on the benefits of mutual cooperation from both an economic and practical position – Locke – linked to the limited role of government including at a global level.