In this episode, we dive deep into John Mearsheimer's "The Tragedy of Great Power Politics" and his theory of offensive realism. We explore how great powers seek to maximize their influence, leading to security competition and potential conflicts. From Napoleon to the Cold War, we examine historical examples that support Mearsheimer's claims. We also discuss the roles of military power, state strategies, and system structures in shaping international relations. Join us as we unpack the complexities of global politics and consider the relevance of realism in our modern world