The Value of Controlling the Narrative in Realist Political Theory
Realist political theory asserts that power and survival are the ultimate goals of any state in an anarchic international system. In this context, controlling the narrative—the story a nation tells itself and the world about its actions—becomes a critical tool of statecraft. Even if a nation's actions are morally questionable or outright wrong, controlling the narrative can preserve its legitimacy, shape perceptions and ensure its strategic goals are met.
This article explores the realist justification for narrative control, the mechanisms states use to manage perceptions and the potential consequences of failing to dominate the information battlefield.