ABSTRACT
This chapter examines Liberalism—appears clear and straightforward. It shares some of the assumptions on which Realism is based—especially the assumption that there is a world out there which they can see operating separately from their looking at it, in much the same way as natural sciences observe the physical universe and biological world. The chapter explains why Liberal assumptions are important in understanding international relations. It describes how the failure of Collective Security shows some of the weaknesses of Liberalism. Liberalism suggests the possibility of progress and improvement in international relations through the creation and development of international institutions. Liberalism suggests that liberal arrangements are especially suited to delivering peace and prosperity in the modern era of industry and technology, and that nearly all governments and people, with varying degrees of willingness, recognize this is so. Liberalism says that in politics, economics, and society they should start with individuals for reasons of fact and morality.
