Is there escape from a self-help system? Realists say no. They assume
states are egoistic actors in anarchy; this means states must either l
ook out for themselves or risk destruction: structure generates a self
-help system. Constructivists think escape is possible. Because identi
ties are made, not given, we should not make a priori assumptions of s
tate egoism: process generates self-help. Process could also generate
an other-help security system. This article introduces a third approac
h that uses social identity theory to argue that interstate relations
are inherently competitive. Thus, for cognitive and motivated-rather t
han structural or social-reasons, competition, which can be coercive o
r cooperative, characterizes international politics.