Theory Structural realism holds that the nature of the international structure is defined by its ordering principle (anarchy), units of the system (states), and by the distribution of capabilities (measured by the number of great powers within the international system), with only the last being considered an independent variable with any meaningful change over time. The anarchic ordering principle of the international structure is decentralized, meaning there is no formal central authority; every sovereign state is formally equal in this system. These states act according to the logic of egoism, meaning states seek their own interest and will not subordinate their interest to the interests of other states.
Theory Structural realism holds that the nature of the international structure is defined by its ordering principle (anarchy) units of the system (states) and by the distribution of capabilities (measured by the number of great powers within the international system) with only the last being considered an independent variable with any meaningful change over time The anarchic ordering principle of the international structure is decentralized meaning there is no formal central authority; every sovereign state is formally equal in this system These states act according to the logic of egoism meaning states seek their own interest and will not subordinate their interest to the interests of other states