Neo-Realism PYQs - Political Science Coaching Centre

Created by

Dr. S. H. Sarkar

Neo-Realism

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1. Match List I with List II: (CUET PG 2022)

(1) A-I, B-II, C-III, D-IV

(2) A-III, B-IV, C-II, D-I

(3) A-III, B-IV, C-I, D-II

(4) A-IV, B-III, C-II, D-I

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2. Who among the following realist theorists considered that a basic feature of international relations is the decentralized structure of anarchy between States? (CUET PG 2023)

1. Hans J. Morgenthau

2. T. Schelling

3. Kenneth Waltz

4. J. Mearsheimer

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3. Neorealism is an extension of realism first formalised by US political scientist (Presidency University Masters Entrance Questions 2017)

(A) Hans J Morgenthau

(B) Kenneth Waltz

(C) Henry Kissinger

(D) E. H. Carr

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4. American political scientist John Mearsheimer is associated with which one of the following? (Himachal Pradesh SET 2017)

(A) Classical Realism

(B) Neo-Classical Realism

(C) Structural Realism

(D) None of these

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5. Which of the following scholar is not associated with Post-Structuralism in International relations? (JAMMU & KASHMIR SET JUNE 2022)

(A) Richard Ashley

(B) David Campbell

(C) Kenneth Waltz

(D) R.B.J. Walker

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6. Founder of the Neorealism of International Politics is (RAJASTHAN SET 2012 PART 1)

(1) Morgenthou

(2) Spichman

(3) Kenneth N. Waltz

(4) Thompson Canon

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7. Which of the following level of analysis is not discussed by Waltz in his book Man, The State and War:- (DU MA 2019)

1. State level

2. Dyadic level

3. Individual level

4. Systemic level

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8. Match List I with List II (DU MA 2021)

1. A-II, B-III, C-IV, D-I

2. A-I, B-IV, C-II, D-III

3. A-IV, B-III, C-I, D-II

4. A-III, B-II, C-I, D-IV

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9. Structural Functionalism as a method was developed to study the politics of:- (DU MA 2018)

1. Politics of developing countries

2. Developed Socialism

3. Advanced Capitalism

4. Modern Totalitarianism

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10. Which one of the following is NOT the core issue related to the neo-realist theory of International Relations? (NET December 2020 & June 2021 Paper-II)

(a) Actors react in an anarchical environment

(b) Distrust and fear among actors creates problem of security dilemma

(c) States are always engaged in the process of monopoly capitalism

(d) Structure is a major determinant of actor's behavior

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11. The exponent of Defensive ‘Neo-realism’? (KERALA SET 2022 JANUARY)

A) John Mearshimer

B) Kenneth Waltz

C) Robert Jervis

D) Robert Cox

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12. The primary explanation of state behaviour in neo-realism is the structure of: (NET December 2005)

(A) International organisation

(B) Nation state system

(C) Non state actors

(D) Civil society

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13. Neo-realism means (GUJARAT SET 2023)

(A) an attempt to ignore the unpleasant realities of the world

(B) an attempt to restate the basic ideas of realism in a more structural form

(C) a claim that international society is basically orderly and peaceful

(D) a claim that individual human nature is central to an understanding of international politics

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14. One of the following is the exponent of neo-realism: (NET December 2005)

(A) Robert Cox

(B) Fred Halliday

(C) John Mearsheimer

(D) David Campbell

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15. Consider the following statements: (NET November 2017 Paper III)

(A) Neo-realism and neo-liberalism are rationalist approaches

(B) Neo-realism and feminism are reflectivist approaches

(C) Post structuralism and neo- liberalism are rationalist approaches

(D) Feminism and post structuralism are reflectivist approaches

Select the correct answer from the code given below:

(a) (A) and (B)

(b) (A), (C) and (D)

(c) (A), (B) and (D)

(d) (A) and (D)

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16. Which among the following is considered to be the pioneer of the theory of neo-realism? (BIHAR PSC TIER 3)

(A) Hans J. Morgenthau

(B) Kenneth Waltz

(C) Richard C. Snyder

(D) More than one of the above

(E) None of the above

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17. Who among the following is the pioneer of the theory of neo-realism? (JMI M.A. 2023)

(a) Kenneth Waltz

(b) Hans Morgenthau

(c) Barry Buzan

(d) Raul Prebisch

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18. Who among the following is the Exponent of Neo-Realism in INRs? (KARNATAKA SET 2015 PAPER II)

(A) H. J. Morgenthau

(B) Kenneth Waltz

(C) I. Wallerstein

(D) Robert Dahl

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19. Who among the following is the pioneer of the theory of neo-realism? (JMI M.A. 2016)

(A) Kenneth Waltz

(B) Hans Morgenthau

(C) Barry Buzan

(D) Raul Prebisch

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20. What is neorealism? (NET December 2012 Paper III)

(a) An attempt to ignore the unpleasant realities of the world.

(b) An attempt to restate the basic ideas of realism in a more 'scientific' form.

(c) A claim that international society is basically orderly and peaceful.

(d) A claim that individual human nature is central to an understanding of international politics.

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21. Who is associated with the propagation of the idea offensive realism? (WB PSC 2022)

(A) John J. Mearsheimer

(B) Kenneth Waltz

(C) N. J. Spykman

(D) Reinold Niebuhr

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22. Which of the followings are correct with regard to neorealism in International politics? (NET 2023 JUNE Shift I)

A. Internationalist anarchy necessarily tends towards tensions, conflicts and possibility of war

B. International anarchy results a system of 'self-help'

C. Conflict is encouraged by the fact that states are primarily concerned about maintaining their position relative to other states

D. The security dilemma can be called as building up stores of military weapons for offensive purposes.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

1. A, B and C only

2. A, B, and D only

3. B, C and D only

4. A. C and D only

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23. Who among the following is the pioneer of the theory of neorealism? (MAHARASHTRA SET 2018 PAPER III)

(A) Kenneth Waltz

(B) Hans Morgenthau

(C) Barry Buzan

(D) Raul Prebisch

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24. Who among the following is a neo-realist? (KERALA SET 2015 DECEMBER)

A) Machiavelli

B) Kenneth Waltz

C) Morgenthau

D) George Kennan

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25. Match List I with List II: (KERALA SET 2022 JANUARY)

A) a-2, b-1, c-4, d-3

B) a-3, b-1, c-4, d-2

C) a-2, b-4, c-1, d-3

D) a-3, b-4, c-1, d-2

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26. Match the List I with List II and select the correct answer from the codes given below. (KARNATAKA SET 2016 PAPER III)

(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

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27. Who said, “In crucial situations, however the ultimate concern of states is not for power but for security”? (KARNATAKA SET 2020 PAPER II)

(A) Thomas Schelling

(B) Peter F. Drucker

(C) Hans J. Morgenthau

(D) Kenneth Waltz

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28. Which of the following theories puts the greatest emphasis on structure of international system? (GUJARAT SET DECEMBER 2002)

(A) Liberalism

(B) Neo-liberalism

(C) Neo-realism

(D) Classical realism

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29. While presenting a critique of Neorealism, who made the case for 'Subaltern Realism'? (University of Hyderabad Ph.D 2020)

A. Mohammed Ayoob

B. Samir Amin

C. Kwarne Nkrumah

D. Mahmood Mamdani

The concept of Subaltern Realism is mainly associated with Mohammed Ayoob. It is a critique and modification of traditional realism to better explain the realities of the Global South.

The main book associated with Subaltern Realism by Mohammed Ayoob is:

The Third World Security Predicament: State Making, Regional Conflict, and the International System (1995)

This book lays out his core argument about how state-building, internal insecurity, and regime survival shape the foreign policy of Third World states.

Core / Main Argument

Subaltern Realism argues that:

The primary concern of Third World (postcolonial) states is not external power politics, but internal state-building, regime survival, and domestic insecurity.

Key Points Explained

1. Security is Mainly Internal

Unlike classical realism (e.g., Hans Morgenthau):

Focus: External threats, war, great power rivalry

Ayoob says:

For developing countries, threats come from:
- Ethnic conflicts
- Political instability
- Weak institutions

👉 So, internal insecurity > external threats

2. State-Building is Central

Many Third World states are recently decolonized
Their borders and institutions are often fragile

👉 Main goal:

Build a stable, legitimate state

3. Regime Survival Over National Power

Leaders often prioritize staying in power
Foreign policy is used to:
- Gain legitimacy
- Control domestic opposition

4. Different from Western Realism

Traditional realism assumes:

Strong, stable states
Clear national interests

Subaltern realism argues:

These assumptions don’t fit the Global South context

5. External Environment Still Matters

Global power structures affect these states
But domestic weakness shapes how they respond

In One Line

Subaltern Realism says:

For Third World states, the struggle to build and maintain the state internally is more important than competing for power externally.

Importance

Makes IR theory more inclusive of non-Western experiences
Explains conflicts in Asia, Africa, Latin America better
Bridges domestic politics and international relations

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30. On which point neoliberal institutionalism disagrees with neorealism: (JNU MA 2021)

1. International system is characterized by anarchy

2. States are major players in international relations

3. States cooperate with each other based on cost‐benefit analysis

4. There is complex interdependence amongst states

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31. Read the following statements and choose the correct code: (TELANGANA SET 2023)

A. Classical realist locate the roots of international conflict and war in an imperfect human nature while neo-realists maintain that its deep causes are found in the anarchic international system.

B. Classical realists differentiate between status-quo powers and revisionist powers while neorealism regards states as unitary actors.

C. Classical realists over emphasised balance of power, while neo-realists laid focus on collective security mechanisms.

D. Neo-realists attempt to construct a more rigorous and scientific approach to the study of international politics, while classical realism confine its analyses to subjective valuations of international relations.

1. A, B and C only

2. A, B, C and D

3. A, B and D only

4. A, C and D only

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32. Who is the propounder of 'Structural Realism' in International Politics? (RAJASTHAN SET 2013 PART 1)

(1) Joseph Greco

(2) Hans J. Morgenthau

(3) Kenneth Waltz

(4) Reinold Niebuhr

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33. The major argument of Neo-realism of Kenneth Waltz is that (NET June 2012 Paper II)

(a) Structures are more important than actors.

(b) Actors play more crucial role than structures.

(c) Human nature is crucial element in politics.

(d) The states override the constraints imposed by international structures.

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34. Neo-liberals share with neo-realists their belief (WB SET 2015 Paper III)

(A) in the anarchic international structure and centrality of states.

(B) in theory of international regimes.

(C) that anarchy means sovereign states have no role in the international system.

(D) All the options given above are correct.

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35. Match List - I with List - II and select the correct answer from the codes given below: (NET December 2005)

(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

The phrase "War is the continuation of politics by other means" is famously attributed to the Prussian military theorist Carl von Clausewitz. It comes from his seminal work, "On War" (Vom Kriege), published posthumously in 1832.

Meaning of the Phrase:

Clausewitz argued that war is not an isolated act but a tool used by states to achieve political objectives when diplomacy or peaceful means fail. The core idea is that war is fundamentally connected to politics—it is a political instrument, and its purpose is to compel an opponent to fulfill one's will. He emphasized that war should always be seen in the context of the political goals it aims to achieve, and the military should serve the political leadership.

Key Implications:

War is a tool for political ends – Military action is just an extension of political strategy, and war should only be fought with clear political objectives in mind.
Rationality in war – Clausewitz believed that war should be conducted in a rational manner, keeping the political purpose in focus to avoid senseless violence.
Limited vs. Absolute War – He distinguished between "limited war" (for specific political objectives) and "absolute war" (total war, often aimed at completely defeating the enemy). Even in absolute war, the connection to politics remains essential.

Clausewitz’s insight continues to influence military strategy and political theory, as it highlights the inseparable link between politics and warfare.

_________________

The Heartland Theory is a geopolitical concept developed by Halford Mackinder, a British geographer and politician, in the early 20th century, particularly articulated in his 1904 paper titled "The Geographical Pivot of History."

Key Elements of the Heartland Theory:

Geopolitical Centrality:
- Mackinder identified a region he termed the "Heartland," which he described as the central area of Eurasia, encompassing parts of Eastern Europe and Central Asia. He argued that whoever controls this region would have significant power over the entire world.
Land Power vs. Sea Power:
- Mackinder contrasted land power (represented by the Heartland) with sea power (represented by nations like Britain). He believed that land power was ultimately more strategic, as it could control vast resources and populations, leading to dominance over sea powers.
Strategic Importance:
- The Heartland is crucial because it contains vast resources and is geographically positioned to influence continental politics. Mackinder argued that control over this area would allow a nation to exert influence over the surrounding regions and, by extension, the world.
Historical Context:
- Mackinder's theory emerged during a time when European imperial powers were vying for control over territories and resources. His analysis was partly a response to the rise of Russia as a significant continental power and its implications for British imperial interests.

Implications of the Heartland Theory:

Geopolitical Strategy: Mackinder's theory has influenced geopolitical strategies throughout the 20th century, particularly during the Cold War when the USSR was seen as a dominant force in the Heartland region.
Modern Interpretations: The Heartland Theory continues to be referenced in contemporary geopolitics, especially concerning conflicts in regions like Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East.

Conclusion:

Mackinder's Heartland Theory remains a foundational concept in the field of geopolitics, illustrating the strategic significance of geographical location and its impact on global power dynamics.

________________

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36. Given below are two statements, one labelled as Assertion (A) and the other labelled as Reason (R): (NET June 2011 Paper II)

Assertion (A): Constructivism insists that international relations cannot be reduced to national action and interaction within material constraints as realism claims.

Reason (R): Because State interaction is not among fixed national interests but is to be understood as a pattern of action and shapes and is shaped by identities over time.

Select the correct answer from the codes given below:

(A) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

(B) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).

(C) (A) is true, but (R) is false.

(D) (A) is false, but (R) is true.

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37. Select the correct answer from the codes given below: (WEST BENGAL SET 2018 PAPER II)

Assertion (A): Conventional wisdom is that the more nuclear states there are, the more likely it is that a nuclear war will break out. Kenneth Wattz however has argued to the contrary.

Reason (R): Wattz believes that states in a nuclear situation begin to act much more cautiously.

Codes:

(A) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

(B) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).

(C) (A) is true, but (R) is false.

(D) (A) is false, but (R) is true.

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38. A leading exponent of 'offensive realism' is (WEST BENGAL SET 2022)

(A) Samuel Huntington

(B) Francis Fukuyama

(C) John Mearsheimer

(D) Paul Krugman

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