: When State A builds up its military for defense, State B perceives this as a threat and builds its own. This creates a cycle where both states feel less secure than before, despite their best efforts.
While all realists agree fear is central, they disagree on its source and its consequences. Realism and Fear in International Relations - ResearchGate
: States can never truly know if another country is a "status quo" power or an aggressor. A peaceful neighbor today could become a threat tomorrow. 2. Three Pillars of Realist Fear
