Realism is an artistic movement that emerged in the mid-19th century, emphasizing the depiction of everyday life and ordinary people with accuracy and detail. It rejects idealization, focusing instead on the truthful, unembellished representation of subjects, often highlighting social issues and the experiences of the working class.

1. Introduction to
Realism
Realism is an artistic movement that emerged in the 19th century,
focusing on the accurate depiction of the everyday world. This style aims
to portray realistic scenes and characters, often highlighting the hardships
and struggles of modern life.
by Amandeep Kaur

2. Definition of Realism
Philosophical Realism
Realism is the philosophical
view that physical objects and
their properties exist
independently of the mind.
Realists believe that reality is
objective and mind-
independent, in contrast to
idealist or relativist views.
Artistic Realism
In art, realism refers to the
realistic and faithful
representation of the subject
matter, often in a naturalistic
style. Realist artists aim to
depict the world as it is, without
idealization or embellishment.
Political Realism
In international relations,
political realism is a theory that
emphasizes the role of self-
interest and power in shaping
foreign policy. Realists view
states as the primary actors in
world affairs, focused on
maximizing their own security
and influence.

3. Historical Context of Realism
Realism emerged in the 19th century as a
reaction against the romantic and idealistic
trends in art, literature, and philosophy. It sought
to portray the world as it truly is, without
embellishment or romanticization.
The rise of realism was influenced by the
growing scientific worldview, as well as the social
and political changes of the Industrial
Revolution. Realists aimed to objectively depict
the complexities of modern life.

4. Key Principles of Realism
Focus on Interests
Realism emphasizes the
pursuit of national interests as
the driving force of foreign
policy, prioritizing power,
security, and survival over
ideals or moral considerations.
Anarchic World Order
Realists view the international
system as inherently anarchic,
with no overarching global
authority. States must rely on
their own resources and
capabilities to ensure their
survival.
Power Dynamics
Realism underscores the
importance of power, both
military and economic, as the
primary determinant of a state's
influence and ability to achieve
its objectives.

5. Realism in Literature
Literary realism emerged in the 19th century as a reaction against the
romanticism and idealism of earlier periods. Realist authors sought to
depict everyday life and the human condition with objective, unvarnished
portrayals of the middle and lower classes.
Prominent realist writers like Gustave Flaubert, Honoré de Balzac, and
Leo Tolstoy focused on meticulous descriptions of mundane details and
explored themes of social inequality, moral ambiguity, and the gritty
realities of modern life.

6. Realism in Art
Realism in art emerged in the 19th century as a
reaction against the idealized, romantic
depictions of the past. Realist artists sought to
accurately portray the everyday lives and
struggles of common people, capturing the gritty
details of the modern world.
Prominent realist painters like Gustave Courbet,
Jean-François Millet, and Édouard Manet
rejected the grandiose and mythological themes
of earlier art, instead focusing on realistic scenes
of rural life, urban landscapes, and the working
class.

7. Realism in Philosophy
Objective Reality
Realist philosophers
believe that there is an
objective reality that exists
independently of our
perceptions or beliefs. This
reality can be studied and
understood through reason
and empirical observation.
Knowledge and Truth
Realists argue that
knowledge can accurately
represent this objective
reality, and that there are
universal truths that can be
discovered through
rigorous investigation.
Rejection of Idealism
Realist philosophy stands
in opposition to idealist
views that reality is
ultimately mental or
subjective. Realists believe
that the material world
exists independently of the
mind.

8. Realism in International Relations
Foundational
Principles
Realism in
international
relations posits that
states are the
primary actors,
pursuing their own
self-interest in a
world of constant
competition and
potential conflict.
Power and
Security
Realists believe that
states must prioritize
acquiring military
and economic
power to ensure
their security and
survival in an
anarchic global
system.
Zero-Sum
Mentality
Realists view
international politics
as a zero-sum
game, where one
state's gain is
another's loss.
Cooperation is seen
as rare and
temporary.
Pragmatic
Approach
Realists advocate
for a pragmatic,
hard-nosed
approach to foreign
policy, focused on
achieving tangible
national interests
rather than lofty
moral ideals.

9. Criticisms and Limitations of Realism
1 Oversimplification
Realism is criticized for oversimplifying the
complex realities of international politics,
reducing it to a power struggle between
self-interested states.
2 Lack of Normative Guidance
Realism provides little normative guidance
on how states should behave, focusing
solely on the pursuit of power and national
interest.
3 Amorality
Realism is accused of being amoral,
justifying unethical actions in the name of
national interest and power maximization.
4 Inability to Explain Change
Realism struggles to explain significant
changes in the international system, such
as the end of the Cold War and the rise of
non-state actors.

10. Conclusion and
Future of Realism
Realism has had a profound and lasting impact on various fields, but it
also faces significant criticisms and challenges as the world becomes
increasingly complex. As we look to the future, the enduring relevance
and evolution of realist thought will be crucial in navigating the global
landscape.