Introduction
The complex interplay between the United States' foreign policy and the theory of offensive
realism during the Obama and Trump presidencies is a subject of profound interest and
significance in understanding the dynamics of international relations. Offensive realism,
emphasizing states' relentless pursuit of power and security, offers a lens through which to
analyze the decisions and actions of these administrations on the global stage. The choice of this
topic stems from the compelling need to comprehend how offensive realism shaped US foreign
policy during contrasting political eras, providing valuable insights into the motivations and
objectives driving American diplomacy.
This topic holds paramount importance for several reasons. Firstly, examining the
application of offensive realism in US foreign policy facilitates a nuanced understanding of the
underlying principles guiding American strategic behavior. Secondly, it offers insights into the
implications of such policies on global stability and security dynamics, given the theory's
emphasis on power dynamics and security imperatives.
The aim of this thesis is to conduct an analysis of US foreign policy during the Obama
and Trump presidencies through the theoretical framework of offensive realism. To what extent
does offensive realism serve as an effective analytical tool for understanding US foreign policy
decisions under the administrations of both presidents – the Democratic and Republican? It is
hypothesized that offensive realism provides a more illuminating perspective for interpreting US
foreign policy during the Trump presidency compared to the Obama. Considering the aim and the
hypotheses of the study, three research questions were raised and they are:
− How did offensive realism influence the formulation and execution of US foreign policy
strategies during the Obama and Trump administrations?
− What are the key differences in the application of offensive realism between the Obama
and Trump presidencies?
− How do the foreign policy actions of the Obama and Trump administrations reflect the
principles of offensive realism?
The thesis is structured into three chapters. The first chapter establishes the foundational
principles of offensive realism, distinguishing it from defensive realism and analyzing strategic
approaches within this theoretical framework, such as power projection and assertive diplomacy.
The second chapter explores the application of offensive realism in US foreign policy during the
Obama presidency, examining how it influenced decision-making and strategic objectives. This
includes an evaluation of specific instances where offensive realism shaped diplomatic
engagements and policy formulation. The third chapter extends this analysis to the Trump
presidency, assessing the alignment of Trump's foreign policy doctrine with the principles of
offensive realism and scrutinizing key decisions made within this paradigm. Through a
comparative lens, this chapter elucidates the nuances and variations in the application of
offensive realism between the Obama and Trump administrations, providing insights into the
evolution of US foreign policy strategies.
In achieving the objectives and aim of this study, the major materials assessed include
publications…..
Conclusion
In conclusion, the exploration of "The Offensive Realism in Foreign Policy of the United States
during Obama and Trump presidency" has provided valuable insights into the complexities of US
foreign policy decision-making within the framework of offensive realism. The aim of this thesis
was to analyze the determinants, goals, and initiatives of US foreign policy during two distinct
presidential administrations, with a focus on understanding the application of offensive realism in
shaping diplomatic strategies. The research problem, which questioned the utility of offensive
realism in analyzing US foreign policy under Obama and Trump, has been addressed through a
thorough examination of key policy decisions and strategic objectives. The hypothesis that
offensive realism offers a more insightful perspective for interpreting US foreign policy during
the Trump presidency has been corroborated by the analysis presented in this thesis.
By answering the research questions posed in the introduction, this study has elucidated the
manifestation of offensive realism in US foreign policy strategies, identified differences between
the two administrations, and highlighted the principles guiding foreign policy actions. Overall,
this thesis underscores the significance of offensive realism as a theoretical framework for
understanding US foreign policy dynamics and provides critical insights into the evolving nature
of international relations. Looking ahead, it is imperative to recognize the enduring relevance of
offensive realism in shaping US foreign policy approaches and to continue exploring its
implications for global stability and security in the 21st century.
