The rise of transnational terrorist organizations after September 11 weakened the state framework of the international system and challenged structural realism's conception of power. As a major theory, one could assume that the premises of structural realism would be more applicable in the 21st century. However, today's leaders envelop countries in a globalist mentality, challenging a state mentality that honors sovereignty. September 11 represents a historic turning point; during which clashes between state and non-state actors have increased the vulnerability of state actors and called into question their internal sovereignty. This article will examine the premises of structural realism and explain how the rise of non-state actors illustrates that the traditional nation-state is no longer the primary actor. I will present relevant modern examples that will provide a framework to validate the claim that the principles of structural realism are incongruous with the current international system. Kenneth Waltz, the founder of structural realism, promotes a theory that favors the systemic structure of a state. rather than the behaviors of individuals within. It views states as black boxes where cultural and regime differences have no bearing on their ultimate quest for survival. In the Theory of International Politics, Waltz elucidates three principles of state behavior that govern their interaction in the anarchic international system. However, in this article I will only discuss two, the ordering principle and the character of units. All structural realist theories stem from the assertion that the international system is decentralized and governed by anarchy. The absence of a central authority promotes the belief in the survival... middle of document ...... state actors. Although some will argue that a state-centric international system is suitable for non-state actors, because to achieve a foreseeable future, they need to understand the state system and how to operate within it. This structure is weakening as non-state actors increase their influence in conflicts and challenge the international order based on state power. The opening of commercial markets and the weakening of territorial sovereignty have limited the monopoly on state power claimed by structural realists. In Structural Realism After the Cold War, Kenneth Waltz argues that "if the conditions envisaged by a theory have changed, the theory no longer applies." Theories and traditions of international relations must become more comprehensive if society is to tackle 21st century conflicts more effectively in the future...