The Realist Paradigm and Regional Security Dynamics in South Asia

Abstract

Power politics is no historical accident. According to Morgenthau it is a 'human fact' or 'logical necessity.' Power politics is always explored with in the forces of power reality and morality in order to discern each other. Realists' assumptions about the global affairs are practical implantation of what power politics is. However, power accumulation is the key interest among the power groups in South Asia resulting in sustained anarchic environment. During the past centuries, the South Asian region has witnessed the ascendancy and decadency of multi-civilizational great empires. Various areas have been ruled by different power-groups and ethnic entities under varying socio-religious characteristics, fighting for their survival and supremacy. It has witnessed shift from the most dominating monarchies to the ascendance of imperial powers and the creation of non-state actors. Power politics and anarchy has been traced out as a persistent indicator in the South Asian politics raising security concerns.