Examining the Differences between Classical Realism and Structuralist Theories

Undoubtedly, the theory of realism is the most important and stable theory of international relations. The irreplaceable attraction of this theory is due to its closeness with the performance of politicians in the international arena, as well as its closeness with the conventional understanding of international politics. Realist theories on the practical method for international relations in the way of "how it is?", "not how it should be". are focused According to the realist point of view, governments play a central role and international relations also consist of these governments, and other international actors such as individuals, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations are not very important, but are only tools in the hands of governments. This research aims to investigate the difference between the views of classical realism and structuralist realism in a descriptive and analytical way and collected with library documents, and seeks to answer the question of what are the differences between these two theories in concepts such as government, power, structure and foreign policy? The hypothesis of the article is that the theory of classical realism and structuralist realism, while having common foundations, also have many internal differences and debates.