HADRIAN GORUN
Abstract
This study represents a short synthesis of my recent book on the topic of the history and theory of international relations. My analysis represents an argument for a theoretical perspective in the research of the Romanian historiography dedicated to the First World War. Taking into consideration the lack of such historical papers and books, I decided to elaborate this article starting from the main items, concepts and syntagms belonging to the theory of international relations. Nowadays in the field of humanities and social sciences, the interdisciplinary approaches are not only welcomed but required. The international relations need to be analyzed from a descriptive perspective and from a theoretical one, as well. Methodologically I used different theoretical concepts and tried to apply them to the history of Romania’s participation in World War I. I built my analysis mainly from the point of view of the realism, without neglecting the constructivist theory. I attempted to demonstrate that the Romanian state performed as a rational actor during the First World War, aiming to maximize its benefits and advantages. Romania also carried out a policy of prestige. The Romanian Kingdom entered First World War in order to extend its national territory.
Keywords: theory of international relations, World War I, Romania, realism, game theory, national interest, policy of prestige, balance of power, coalition, alliance.
For a New Method of Analysis: Romania’s Role in The First World War