Rationalism and the “rational actor assumption” in realist international relations theory

The commitment to the rational actor model of state behavior is said be a core assumption realist theory. This listed in most textbook accounts realism. Yet rationality supposition theory, and if so, what kind implied these claims? Debate on relationship between realism, often labeled as replete with misunderstandings. Authors deploy terms such rationality, rationalism, diverse contradictory ways. article aims cut through this confusion provide an account different ways which are used field International Relations (IR). We argue that much surrounding rationalism/rationality IR arises due failure distinguish rationalism epistemological position (the observer assumption) ontological assumption). use distinction examine carefully concepts