The Periphery of Theory and Theory from the Periphery. Critical Approaches in the Theory of International Relations

Abstract

n recent years a strong challenge on several fronts of International Relations Theory (regarding its explanatory power and its claim of neutrality in international affairs analysis) has emerged. A common starting point for any critical approach has to do with a deep understanding of the origin, development and stakes surrounding the theoretical elaboration. This task has been growing from different perspectives in recent years, guided by a profound questioning of the so-called mainstream of International Relations theory. These perspectives run through different paths and are often difficult to distinguish. On the other hand, and considering the historicity and specificity that claims from theory with a critical approach, an important question arises inevitably linked to the type of guidance that should inspire reflection on international affairs from the particular perspective of a country like ours. The urgency of a theoretical construction that responds to the specific peripheral integration assumed in the international environment becomes obvious. In this spirit, this article attempts to outline the contributions that the so-called critical approaches have been adding to the International Relations theory, and from then tentatively address the guidelines by which a critical approach should move from the periphery.