Niccolo Machiavelli — Glossary

States form alliances based on perceived threats rather than just power, considering factors like geographic proximity and offensive capabilities.

A strategy where a weaker state aligns with a stronger power to share the benefits of its dominance rather than balancing against it.

A theory in international relations positing that states seek security and survival rather than power maximization, emphasizing cautious behavior in an anarchic system.

The quality of boldness, pragmatism, and strategic skill that Machiavelli argued rulers must possess to maintain power and order.

Neoclassical realism combines systemic factors with domestic variables to explain state behavior in international politics.

A theory in international relations that emphasizes states seek to maximize their power and dominance to ensure security.

Strategy where a great power uses regional allies to check rivals instead of deploying its own forces extensively abroad.

An international relations theory emphasizing state [Self-Interest](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/self-interest), power, and survival over ideology or ethics.

Situation where actions by a state to increase its security cause insecurity in others, leading to arms races or conflict.

Niccolò Machiavelli's seminal work outlining pragmatic and often ruthless strategies for political leadership and power retention.