The Philosophy of Realpolitik
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Realpolitik is a strong-minded political philosophy employed by many political thinkers from the Renaissance up until the 20th century. The word is quite literal, Realpolitik just means Real Politic In English, as in practical or actual political practice. The idea seems to be coined by Niccolo Machiavelli, though Realpolitik is the German word that originates from 19th century German writer Ludwig von Rochau.
Realpolitik is the idea of practical government. Though based primarily on power, realism and pragmatism are both exercised by this concept. One could say it evolved from the idea of reason that came about centuries before, even in ancient Greece, where Plato wrote about concepts similar to those employed by Realpolitik.
Unlike prior political philosophy, realpolitik does not follow certain ideologies or explicit notions that are based on moral or ethic concepts.
Realpolitik is the idea of practical government. Though based primarily on power, realism and pragmatism are both exercised by this concept. One could say it evolved from the idea of reason that came about centuries before, even in ancient Greece, where Plato wrote about concepts similar to those employed by Realpolitik.
Unlike prior political philosophy, realpolitik does not follow certain ideologies or explicit notions that are based on moral or ethic concepts.
Bismarck's Realpolitik
Bismarck was likely the most notable German advocate of Realpolitik. At times he employed Realpolitik to advance Prussia's status or achieve greater dominance within Europe. Though his methods were not as tactful as some. He would sometimes antagonize other nations or cause wars to get what he wished to achieve for Prussia. While these tactics may seem barbaric, they was under Realpolitik, and to Bismarck would be considered the practical way of getting things done. Several moves that could be considered illogical at the time were used by Bismarck for some purpose or another, for example Prussia's lack of demand for territory from a defeated Austria would later play a part in the Unification of the German Empire. These would be considered textbook examples of realpolitik.