Human nature makes interstate conflict inevitable, argues new IEA book

Classical liberal ideas provide a “coherent and unique voice” in international relations, according to a new book published by the Institute of Economic Affairs

Humans and states have a propensity for conflict that must be carefully managed

Sovereign nations are the primary actors in international relations

International law and organisations can enable peace and cooperation but also risk interfering with individual liberty

Defensive wars are justifiable, but military intervention should be limited to preventing genocide

Free trade and globalisation enable economic development, rather than government-provided foreign aid

Trade improves relations but does not guarantee peace

The Russo-Ukrainian war and mounting tensions between the West and China highlight the need for a different approach to international order. A new book, from the free market think tank the Institute of Economic Affairs, paints a way forward based on classical liberal principles.

An Introduction to Classical Liberalism and International Relations Theory, by political philosopher Edwin van de Haar, debunks the myth that classical liberal ideas are only relevant to domestic politics.

It consolidates the insights of a range of scholars – from David Hume and Adam Smith to Ludwig von Mises, and F.A. Hayek – into a coherent classical liberal theory of international relations.

Classical liberals reject the idealist notion of lasting world peace, instead highlighting the realist view that human nature inevitably drives conflict and wars between states. Nevertheless, classical liberals believe stability can be achieved by balancing power between competing sovereign nation states, asserting the importance of national sovereignty and warning against powerful international institutions like the European Union.

Classical liberals distinguish themselves from the realist view of international relations by promoting classical human rights, limited government, supporting intervention to prevent genocide, and advocating for functional, but minimal international organisations.

Classical liberals share with libertarians a belief in individual liberty, free trade and concerns about expansive state power. But they reject the libertarian emphasis on isolationism and neutrality, calls to privatise national defence and the optimistic view that trade alone can deliver peace.

The book’s author Edwin van de Haar said:

“Modern classical liberals have been remarkably silent on world politics, certainly on issues such as war, the balance of power, international order, or immigration. This is unnecessary, because classical liberal thought offers ample evidence and input for a coherent and unique voice on old and new topics of international relations. This book aims to present these ideas in an accessible way, for students, the general public as well as academics.”