Abstract
The two main theories have very different views on cooperation. The first, and the dominant theory of neorealism, is that cooperation is not likely to occur, while on the other hand, neoliberalism focuses on the possibility for cooperation to take place.
According to neorealism, international cooperation is not likely to occur. The Neorealist theory rests on the anarchy inherent in the international system. Neorealists define anarchy as the decentralized distribution of power in the international system. No leader or central authority has the legitimacy to monopolize power . Neorealists argue, just as realists have, that the international system is fundamentally insecure. States are the main unitary actors, and they act in a rational way to pursue their self interest, which includes security and survival. To achieve these goals, each State will try to gain more power, not as an end, like pure realists view it, but only as a way to survive. The international system is thus led by the struggle for power between the strongest and the weakest actors. Because there is no overriding power, the system remains insecure, self help is the guiding principle. In a system of self help, States will not seek others' help to achieve their goals, but will rely only on their own capabilities
