This article argues for the confirmation of Marxist philosophy as the ideology that guides international relations (IR) studies in China.Justification comes through the following points. According to Marxism,correct theoretical guidance serves as the prerequisite for correct practice.Marxist philosophy embodies, by nature, righteousness, in opposition to political hegemony. Accordingly, practice under its guidance represents fruitful revolutionary realism. Finally, advanced studies of international relations in this country cannot be separated from philosophical thinking.Using these arguments as background, this article specifically advocates materialism, patriotism, and service to the people as the corner-stone of China's IR theory building.