ABSTRACT

Despite attempts to redress the balance, international relations (IR) as a discipline is still dominated by Western theories. The contributors in this book explore the challenges of constructing an alternative, with a dialogue between global and local approaches.

Drawing on scholars with backgrounds in the United States, Europe, Asia and South America, this volume attempts to critically engage with and reflect upon existing traditions of IR theory to produce a deeply pluralist approach. Traditions, cultures, histories and practices from around the world influence their respective theoretical understanding and in turn explain why the Western tradition of IR is insufficient.

This book provides great insight for scholars of IR from around the world, looking for more diversity in IR theory.

chapter 1|26 pages

Introduction

The global turn in IR and non-Western IR theory

chapter 2|17 pages

The second coming?

Reflections on a global theory of international relations 1

chapter 3|23 pages

How and how not to develop IR theory

Lessons from core and periphery

chapter 4|21 pages

Toward a pluralist international relations theory

A European Union perspective 1

chapter 5|14 pages

Going beyond ‘the West/non-West divide’ in IR

How to ensure dialogue as mutual learning

chapter 6|22 pages

Chinese values vs. liberalism

What ideology will shape the international normative order?

chapter 7|15 pages

Toward a ‘global IR’?

A view from Brazil

chapter 8|19 pages

A multiverse of knowledge

Cultures and IR theories

chapter 9|28 pages

From heaven to Earth

‘Cultural idealism’ and ‘moral realism’ as Chinese contributions to global international relations 1