As a political philosophy expert, I'd like to begin by clarifying that political realism indeed is a theory, and it is one of the most influential and enduring perspectives in the study of international relations. It is a framework that seeks to understand the dynamics of politics by focusing on the role of power, interests, and human nature in shaping political actions and outcomes.

Realism is often traced back to the works of ancient philosophers such as Thucydides, who emphasized the role of power and human nature in the Peloponnesian War. However, it was in the 20th century that realism became a formalized school of thought, particularly with the work of scholars like E.H. Carr and Hans Morgenthau. Morgenthau's seminal work, "Politics Among Nations," laid out six principles of political realism that have guided the development of the theory.

The core tenets of realism include the following:


1. Human Nature: Realists believe that humans are inherently selfish and power-driven. This view is rooted in the belief that individuals and states alike are motivated by self-interest, which is often perceived in terms of power and security.


2. Anarchy: The international system is anarchic, meaning there is no global government to enforce rules or maintain order. States must rely on their own capabilities to ensure their survival.


3. National Interest: The primary goal of a state is to maintain and enhance its national interest, which is often defined in terms of power and security.


4. Power Politics: Realists argue that power is the currency of international relations. States engage in power politics to protect their interests and to gain advantages over others.


5. Balance of Power: To prevent any single state from dominating, a balance of power is necessary. This involves the distribution of power among states in such a way that no single state can dominate the system.


6. Skepticism of Idealism and Moralism: Realists are skeptical of moral or idealistic approaches to politics, believing that they often fail to account for the harsh realities of power and self-interest.

Political realism is not without its critics. Critics argue that it can be overly pessimistic, ignoring the potential for cooperation and the role of norms and institutions in shaping international relations. Despite these criticisms, realism remains a powerful tool for understanding the often complex and competitive nature of global politics.

Now, let's move on to the translation of the above content into Chinese.

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Political realism is a theory of political philosophy that attempts to explain, model, and prescribe political relations. It takes as its assumption that power is (or ought to be) the primary end of political action, whether in the domestic or international arena.read more >>