Final answer:
Realists believe that the most effective way for countries to protect or advance their national interest is by using diplomacy, economic power, and armed forces.
Step-by-step explanation:
Realists believe that the most effective way for countries to protect or advance their national interest is by using different strategies:
- Using diplomacy to rally allies and isolate threats.
- Marshaling economic power to facilitate or compel cooperation.
- Maintaining effective armed forces.
Realists believe that states should prioritize their own self-interests and act in a way that ensures their own security and power.