Choose either question 1 or question 2
Question 1:
In the early 1860's Otto von Bismarck responded to the possibility that Poland would regain its sovereignty with the following words: "I have every sympathy for their [Poland's] situation, but if we [Prussian] wish to survive we have no choice but to wipe them out."
Realism comes in several formulations. Spell out the core argument of realist theory. Highlight some notable disagreements among realist scholars and try to relate the disagreements to the Bismarck quote. Discuss, preferably by use of empirical examples, analytical strengths and weaknesses of realist theory.
Question 2:
Give an account of Michael Walzer’s justification for humanitarian interventions. Then critically discuss the following statement: “States don’t send their soldiers into other states, it seems, only in order to save lives” (Walzer, 1977/2006, p. 101).