In neoclassical realism, the significance of alliances and power balancing extends beyond mere responses to systemic pressures; it also reflects domestic political influences. Neoclassical realism posits that while states form alliances and balance power in response to structural constraints, domestic political factors such as elite preferences, public opinion, and internal power dynamics critically influence these strategies . In contrast, neorealism views alliances and balancing as largely determined by the anarchic structure of the international system, with states acting to maintain equilibrium purely on systemic pressures . Neoclassical realism thereby adds a layer of complexity by involving domestic considerations in alliance formation and power balancing strategies, explaining variations in behavior not accounted for by neorealism .

Neoclassical realism differs from both classical realism and neorealism by integrating insights from both strands but focusing on different levels of analysis. Classical realism centers on human nature and the intrinsic quest for power, operating primarily at the level of individual and state leaders . Neorealism, or structural realism, emphasizes the anarchic nature of the international system and the resulting power structures that drive state behavior without emphasizing internal state dynamics . In contrast, neoclassical realism combines these perspectives by asserting that international outcomes are influenced not only by the international system but also by domestic-level factors such as state structure and leadership perceptions . It postulates that the state's foreign policy is a function of both the relative power in the international system and internal factors, allowing for a nuanced understanding of policy variance .

Neoclassical realism provides insights into the challenges of state survival and power dynamics by highlighting the dual role of international systemic pressures and domestic political capabilities. It suggests that while states strive to survive and maximize power in an anarchic international system, their strategies and effectiveness depend on domestic political structures, leadership perceptions, and societal cohesion. Neoclassical realism emphasizes that states must navigate external threats and opportunities while balancing internal constraints and resources, thus underscoring the complexity of pursuing security and influence in a dynamic international landscape. Consequently, varying internal configurations lead states to exhibit different foreign policies even under similar systemic conditions .

In neoclassical realism, domestic politics play a crucial role in shaping a state's foreign policy by mediating the influence of external pressures from the international system. The theory posits that state leaders, functioning within a particular domestic political context, interpret and respond to international challenges differently based on internal factors such as the distribution of power within the state, public opinion, and institutional constraints. These domestic conditions influence the process through which state leaders assess foreign threats and opportunities, affecting their decisions about resource allocation and strategic priorities . This focus on internal and external dynamics allows neoclassical realism to account for variations in foreign policy among states with similar systemic pressures .

Neoclassical realism conceptualizes the state as the central actor in international politics, emphasizing a complex relationship between the state and society. It suggests that the state's foreign policy is shaped by both internal and external factors. Internally, it considers the domestic political framework and the interaction between state institutions and societal interests. Externally, it is influenced by the distribution of power in the international system. Neoclassical realism implies that while systemic forces set broad constraints, the state's domestic factors determine the specific foreign policy responses. These theories incorporate the state's ambition and capability, subject to domestic constraints, highlighting that foreign policy is not solely driven by international structure but also by the specific characteristics of each state .

Neoclassical realism explains variations in the foreign policies of states facing similar external conditions by emphasizing the intervening role of domestic factors. It argues that while systemic forces provide a framework of constraints and opportunities, it is the state's internal characteristics—such as political institutions, leadership perceptions, and domestic power configurations—that modify how these external pressures are perceived and acted upon. The theory posits that leaders interpret international threats and opportunities through a domestic lens, incorporating national interests that are partially dictated by internal political dynamics, leading to diverse policy outputs despite similar external pressures .

Neoclassical realism addresses the balance between systemic level influences and domestic political constraints by positing that while international systemic forces establish broad constraints and opportunities, the specific foreign policy behavior of states is filtered through domestic considerations. It argues that systemic pressures necessitate state responses for security and power, yet it is the domestic political structure and the perceptions of state leaders which determine the nature of these responses. The theory thus underscores that the material capabilities afforded by systemic conditions must align with domestic capacities and consensus to shape coherent foreign policy actions, thereby reconciling external systemic stimuli with internal political dynamics .

Neoclassical realism conceptualizes the international system as inherently permissive towards conflict due to its anarchic structure, which lacks overarching authority to regulate state interactions. This permissiveness allows for varying interpretations and responses to threats, leading to strategic miscalculations and competition. Neoclassical realism implies that international stability is precarious because states often pursue conflicting interests under conditions of uncertainty, influenced by both systemic and domestic factors. The theory's emphasis on the combination of external pressures and internal political dynamics highlights the intricate interplay contributing to conflict, suggesting that stable international order requires managing both systemic constraints and addressing domestic political challenges .

Neoclassical realism shares with classical realism a fundamentally pessimistic view of human nature and the condition of human societies. It assumes that human societies are primarily driven by power and security concerns in an environment of scarcity and uncertainty. This perspective is rooted in the belief that humans cannot survive as individuals but need to be part of larger groups that provide security against external threats. Consequently, politics is seen as a perpetual struggle among self-interested groups within states. These assumptions reflect an understanding of international relations as inherently conflictual, shaped by competition for power and resources, thus requiring states to constantly seek power and security .

Neoclassical realism suggests that ethical and moral considerations in international relations are largely shaped by material power and interests rather than inherent moral principles. It posits that states prioritize their security and power, leading to ethics and morals being constructed based on what serves their strategic interests. This pragmatic view implies that moral actions are often justified or constructed post hoc to align with the material and strategic objectives of powerful states. Thus, ethical standards in international politics are seen as contingent and instrumental, reflecting the underlying power structures and interests of dominant states, rather than representing universal moral truths .