International Theory

Immanent Critiques in International Relations

Maximilian Curtis • Mar 19 2014 • Essays

Immanent critiques refocus the epistemological assumptions of orthodox IR theories, providing greater scope for critical theory to broaden analysis at the systemic level.

Is Sex Work an Expression of Women’s Choice and Agency?

Sophia Gore • Mar 14 2014 • Essays

Sex work is not legitimate work or an expression of agency. It is a social issue which can be tackled through delegitimising consumers rather than alienating prostitutes.

Capitalism & Insecurity: How Promoting Western Values Fails to Create Peace

Rusu Mihai Alin • Mar 13 2014 • Essays

The spread of capitalism in globalisation does not spread nor create peace, but rather, creates the conditions in which conflicts, exploitation and insecurities arise.

Bull’s Critique of Hobbesian International Anarchy

Sarah Wallace • Mar 11 2014 • Essays

Hedley Bull’s critique and utilisation of Hobbes’ theory of international anarchy provides a coherent and realistic explanation of the international system.

The International System as Social Construct

Tim Pfefferle • Mar 6 2014 • Essays

In contrast to Neorealist framings, there are clear indications that intersubjective meanings and social identities shape the international system in multiple ways.

John Mearsheimer’s Theory of Offensive Realism and the Rise of China

Sverrir Steinsson • Mar 6 2014 • Essays

Lacking internal coherence, Mearsheimer’s theory ultimately fails to provide a logically consistent basis for the view that China’s rise will be unpeaceful.

Performative Violence: Conceptual and Strategic Implications

Yvonne Manzi • Feb 28 2014 • Essays

The causes and effects of performative violence are linked, and include intimidation, social and material control, social cohesion and communication, and structural violence.

Interwar Liberal Internationalism: Doomed to Fail?

Jamie Gostlow • Feb 26 2014 • Essays

The idea of good motives presents the most interesting critique of liberal internationalism, and can offer a path that appeases both realism and internationalism.

Does the R2P Doctrine Represent a Positive Step for Human Rights?

Sophia Gore • Feb 22 2014 • Essays

R2P, although a symbolic moral step for human rights, is not a sufficiently effective positive step, and is too militaristic in its approach.

The Deployment of Female Counterinsurgents in Afghanistan

Charlotte Fraser • Feb 22 2014 • Essays

Whilst the deployment of female engagement teams in Afghanistan may have signaled a symbolic change in how COIN is practiced, their existence plays only a supporting role.

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