A Comparative Study of Islamic and Realistic Approaches to International Theories (A Case Study: Balance of Powers)

The purpose of the present study is to answer this basic question that from the perspective of methodology, ontology, and epistemology, what is the approach of either idealistic or Islamic theory to the balance of power in the realm of international relations? The method of study is descriptive analysis and it relies on the hypothesis that since the Islamic approach emphasizes on value and ethical issues, contrary to other macro international schools specially realism that is utilitarian and power-centered, therefore it can be stated that the Islamic approach to the subject of power equilibrium in the international realm is peaceful and at the same time against hegemony and political domination. The results of the study showed that Islam as a global religion has a special approach to the essence of international relations that is different from realism. The existing schools in international relations have different ontological, epistemological, and methodological foundations that determine their approach to the international system and as a result their viewpoint about the essence of international relations is distinct from each other. From anthropological view, the epistemological approach of the Islamic theory to international relations is not as pessimist as realism, but rather it maintains that human essence is a combination of instinct and nature, religious politics, and the theory of divine government so the overriding principle in international relations is the nobility of peace. The most important distinction between the Islamic and realistic approach to international relations lie in the epistemological foundations of the Islamic theory by which it could have represented an interpretation of the essence of international relations that corresponds more to the realities in the world.