ABSTRACT
The system of balance of relationships neutralizes the absolute concern for power that exists under realist projections of international anarchy. Assuming that all states have an interest in maintaining stable and secure relationships, the size of a country ceases to be a primary determinant of expected behavior. We demonstrate this by reviewing how small states can be equally active actors in the face of (materially) stronger states. It also questions the conventional IR wisdom that small states invariably prefer multilateral interaction to bilateral ones. We further challenge the findings of both the Western and Chinese relational turns, where the construction of relationality is seen to result in positive emotions. This chapter reveals how small states—and states in general—are sensitive to how the other party evaluates their performance and responds, with anxiety serving as the predominant emotion. As such, exchanges like gift-giving become a common approach to affirm and reaffirm goodwill. Only when the personalization of a relationship occurs, does IR inspire passion. Even so, personalization is not a necessary condition for BoR to take place and succeed.
