Critical approaches

Abstract

Rather than give a genealogy of the "critical turn" in IR, this chapter outlines some of the distinguishing features that characterize critical engagements in the field. Critical approaches in IR include a heterogenous group of theoretical approaches and normative commitments, such as feminism, postcolonialism, Indigenous and Queer scholarship, which "critically" engage with mainstream theories of IR, including classical realism, structural realism, liberalism and neoliberalism. As this chapter attempts to reveal, the rich variety of intellectual traditions and perspectives that are included under the rubric of "critical" enhance the conceptual, empirical, and normative scope of the field. Together they reveal realities, dynamics and causes of global politics we would otherwise not see, thus challenging the ontological and epistemological boundaries of the field, while also promoting positive change.