On January 8, 2016, the Politics Transforming Society—more commonly known as the PTS track—invited IRFS students to the Gansewinkel Hall for a joint activity called “Brain Meals: Dissecting the Syrian Refugee Crisis Through Realism”. The forum sought to analyze the civil war in Syria, and its implications on international security. There were three (3) presenters: acting PTS adviser Mr. Owen de la Victoria, key speaker Mr. Barry Max Henry, and IRFS adviser Atty. Archill Niña Capistrano. Before the event proper, short videos made by several international organizations detailed the toll the violence has had on fleeing Syrians. It described the difficulties they encountered in their host countries, as well as their hopes and dreams.

 

Mr. de la Victoria discussed the basics of Classical Realism, the state-centered theory that emphasizes power regardless of costs. He talked about the relative harshness of Realism when compared to other theories, but that it has nonetheless been effective in securing a state’s position and influence. Mr. Henry, a retired US veteran, spoke about the interconnectedness of politics and history. In order to understand the Syrian Civil War, one would have to look back to the Arab Spring and even further. Events such as 9/11, ISIS, and even the Cold War become more understandable when power-hungry politicians and cutthroat businessmen are taken into account. Atty. Capistrano finished the event with a summary of the previous speakers’ points, as well as suggestions for moving forward. She stressed the importance of shifting perceptions towards protection human life and ensuring a better future for all.

Realism and Refugees: The PTS-IRFS Brain Meals