Gregory Angelone August 13, 2008
Examining the Positive Relationship between Israel and the United States
Israeli and United States relations are based primarily on the theoretical perspectives constructivism and realism. Common ties hold the two countries together as allies. The Constructivist point of view will focus on the norms, rules, identities, and institutions of the two states while the Realist perspective will focus on the common national interests of the two states. The relationship between Israel and the United States is of importance to international relations because both states are strategic allies in the war against terrorism. Israel provides the United States with military bases and a presence in the Middle East that can shape international borders disputes between Israel and Palestine and conflicts the United States is engaged in. The United States supports the Israeli nation and this builds tension for religious extremists both against the United States and Israel.
Constructivism is founded upon the premise that the world's sociopolitical structure is constructed by human practice and that this human practice consists of norms, rules, identity, and institutions. Constructivism states that the structures of human association are determined by shared ideas rather than material forces and that the identities and interests of actors are constructed by these shared ideas. Realism differs from constructivism in that it believes that human nature is fundamentally flawed, the international system is anarchic and rational so states base their decisions on their necessity to survive. Realists fight for balance of power and will do whatever it takes to ensure individual security and securing their self-interests.
Israel and the United States have shared values, including a similar culture as a nation of immigrants. Both nations share Judeo-Christian values and they are committed to human rights and the principles of freedom,...