International Relations Theory A New Introduction Chapter 10 Conclusion and Perspectives

Introduction Aim of this book: A new introduction to international relations theory, acknowledging that there are numerous schools to introduce; many analytical dilemmas to handle; and an abundance of issues to address. To achieve this aim, the book has been informed by five general guiding principles; the present concluding chapter will be structured by revisiting these principles.

Conception of Theory Broad notion of theory enabling a more pluralistic representation of the discipline Realism, Liberalism & certain branches of IPE  mainly explanatory theory English School & Post-positivism  mainly interpretative theory International political theory  mainly normative theory

Tree Structure Introduction of IR theories highlighting “tree structure” of different levels of thinking and reasoning: Traditions Currents of Thought Discrete and Applicable Theories Keep clear distinction between the three layers of theoretical reflection! Recommendation: Only apply applicable theories and use theoretical traditions and currents of thought for other purposes!

Twisting by Means of Epistemological Variation Introduction of different forms of theory, twisted by means of underpinning epistemological commitments Example: Realism - shaped differently by means of different epistemological commitments, e.g. positivism, game theory, constructivism... Examination of the ‘twist’ principle highlights the variation over time of epistemological strategies Enables the crucially important distinction between form & substantive claims about international affairs

De-centric De-centric perspectives encourage critical inclusion, connecting hitherto unconnected IR communities and highlighting the fact that theoretical reflection is a genre of scholarship that has mainly been cultivated in the West thus far.

Major Contemporary Theoretical Debates Theoretical debates demonstrate fault lines of different theoretical orientations  these fault lines constitute patterns of continuity & change Challenge (I): To master debates by being able to account for them! Challenge (II): Engage in debates by assuming a position, explaining why you are where you are and perhaps how you got there!

DIY Theorizing Creative Theorizing: the building blocks Invitation to theorize to encourage a more interactive, less “iconic” approach to teaching IR theory Competence in theorizing should be extended from few to many

Contemporary Research Agendas Constituted by outcome of the turbulence between two major flows of influence: Questions related to events or developments in world politics: e.g. does the emerging multipolar international order have an impact on the system of multilateral institutions? Questions informed by theoretical reflection: e.g. can we identify outcomes x, y and z, i.e. outcomes expected by theory a, b and c ?