International Relations Theory A New Introduction

1. International Relations TheoryA New Introduction Chapter 10 Conclusion and Perspectives

2. 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.

3. 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

4. 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!

5. 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

6. 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.

7. 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!

8. 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

9. 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 ?