ABSTRACT
Realism plays a central role in the development of International Relations as a discipline throughout the Twentieth Century. This chapter investigates the interpretation of the state and international relations by traditional security scholars. The connection between realism and security is made clear. By analyzing the writings of five realist scholars, Hans Morgenthau, John Herz, Arnold Wolfers, Kenneth Waltz, and Buzan, it is possible to recognize key features present in each text. The chapter summarizes the similarities and differences that animate these realist texts and then discuss the successes and failures inherent in the understanding of realism and national security studies. It explores each writer's concept of security. After summarizing the similarities and differences that animate these realist texts, the chapter discusses the successes and failures inherent in the current understanding of realism and national security studies.
