Following the instructions in your syllabus, formulate a well-written, clearly articulated response to the following question. You should provide a comprehensive discussion of realism, its strengths and its weaknesses. Make sure your paper demonstrates your understanding of the assigned readings. This means using quotes (cited using article author's name - not Viotti & Kauppi) from the articles to bolster you points. Your paper will be evaluated according to your substantive argument, logical consistency and coherence, writing style, and grammar. Remember, your recommendation should reflect your understanding of realism - it is not intended to be a "real-life" recommendation.

Realism Theory

Iran is a country experiencing significant turmoil as demands for political reform and social change clash with fundamental religious leaders. Iran has also recently admitted to development of a nuclear program, in violation of the NTBT and the IAEA. You are one of President Obama's top advisors and play a significant role in formulating U.S. foreign policy. As an ardent realist, what would your policy recommendations be? On what grounds do you make these recommendations? What criticisms can you anticipate from policy advisors who do not share your realist orientation?