Analyse the explanations of global politics provided by the anarchical society theory
One way the anarchical society theory explains global politics is the emphasis on an international system typified by anarchy. Bull argues that the current system of states anarchical as there is no higher level of authority. He argues that each state has ultimate sovereignty over the citizens existing within its borders. Similarly, the overall realist perspective supports this idea due to the reflection in never ending power struggles and conflicts between states. For example, the 2022 invasion of Ukraine by Russia clearly proves there is no international governance protecting nations. Realists emphasise the importance of states retaining sovereignty, without ever allowing truly lasting supranational institutions to develop. This is clearly shown in the way that global system appears to operate with the majority recognising state sovereignty.
Furthermore, Bull argues that the global system forms a society whereby ‘common rules and institutions’ exist, these provide a degree of order within the international arena. He highlights that a fear of unrestrained violence has led states to develop certain rules and institutions which may be supported by intergovernmental institutions. For example, the UN has provided many agreements and treaties between states, such as the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty signed in 1968. This is made evident in the liberal idea of global interdependence. Due to fear, states and societies have seen an increase in economic connection and a decrease in military force and thus, a rise in cooperation among states. The EU is a key example of how increased international trade built understanding, it is incredibly rare that two EU states will resort to military conflict. Agreements and treaties may provide a degree of order and stability, without removing state sovereignty.
Bull’s theory of anarchical society can be clearly summarised as ‘liberal realism’. He recognised that a pure realist conception of international relations means that wars and struggles are always imminent, This links synoptically to Hobbes’ idea of a violent state of nature, there is no way for an anarchical system to lead to full cooperation. However to combat this, Bull added that liberal institutions must be set out to aid cooperation. For example, states in the UN still retain their right to sovereignty in global politics, but still abide by certain rules like unprovoked war and the maintenance of human rights. This suggests that whilst global politics is anarchic with no overarching power, liberal institutions and treaties are there to protect states from inevitable crisis.
Nora