New Site, New Voices, Same Purpose
The relaunch of this blog is going to introduce some exciting new elements and an all-star cast of regular contributors from across the world to ignite dialogue on key issues.
In Defence of Expertise
What exactly is an ‘expert’ and with the incredible databases of knowledge available, is there really a need for experts anymore? Further, do they still exist beyond the ivory towers of academia?
Reaffirming the General Assembly’s Futility
In a history plagued with inaction human rights issues and abuses, the UN again proved its ineptitude this week by awarding seats on its Human Rights Council to China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Cuba and Algeria.
Obama, Syria and the Fading Unipolar Moment
As the world watches the Obama Administration fumble its way through a decision about Syria, it is striking just how far the US has fallen in its relative place as a unipolar hegemon.
Waltzian Metatheory: A Rejoinder to Brittnee Carter
A recent article on e-IR examined some of the metatheoretical implications of Waltz’s 1979 Theory of International Politics. Though an excellent analysis, there are some points to add.
The Politics of the Realist/Liberal Divide
Stephen Walt recently pointed out that realist academics tend to be solitary while liberals often collaborate and write jointly. However, he misses a crucial point that needs to be added to the discussion.
The Need for an English School Research Program
Until the practitioners of the English School begin to define precisely what an ES research program would look like, the School’s impact on international theory remains outside the mainstream.
Reflecting on Kenneth Waltz
As professors, students and lovers of international relations, we walk in the shadows of giants. Our field lost one of its giants yesterday with the passing of the undisputedly influential Kenneth Waltz.
IR Theory and the DPRK
Looking at interpretations of current events through an IR theory lens, it is astonishing at how often claims have been made that war is likely, and that we have no way of understanding what North Korea might do.
Acquiring a Bomb Does Not an Aggressor Make
In yet another example of its limited abilities to impact international outcomes, the UNSC again this week agreed to sanction North Korea in an effort to deter threats of nuclear war.
