International Theory Research Articles

Multiplicity and the problem of ‘society’

This article seeks to address a major shortcoming of the idea of Societal Multiplicity in international theory: its lack of a worked-out definition of what counts as ‘a society’. The article supplies this definition in four steps. First, it reviews some difficulties in defining ‘society’, arguing that these arise in part from the historical separation of social and international theory. Second, it interweaves resources from both traditions to argue: (a) that societal multiplicity reflects the specifically political separation of human populations; (b) that this separation arises in part due to centripetal properties of the political as a feature of social life; and (c) that an individual ‘society’ is best defined as a unit of the resultant multiplicity: a social formation that exists simultaneously as a geopolitical sub-division of the social world. Third, the article defends this definition against a series of objections – that it is too general, that it reifies the state, that it is methodologically nationalist and that it suppresses historical variety. And finally it inserts the definition into the idea of Societal Multiplicity in order to test how far, and with what consequences in International Relations and beyond, this closes the definitional gap left by the original formulation of that idea.

Dynamic capabilities research in international marketing: a systematic literature review and direction for future research

PurposeThis study intends to (1) systematically review methodological, theoretical and empirical aspects of dynamic capabilities (DCs) research in international marketing; (2) identify problematic areas and gaps in the reviewed literature and (c) provide directions to address problematic aspects and fill the gaps in future research.Design/methodology/approachThe study applies a systematic literature review methodology and covers 97 articles published between 2001 and 2022 in peer-reviewed journals ranked 2, 3, 4 and 4* in the Academic Journal Guide 2021.FindingsThe content analysis shows that (1) methodologically, the literature is dominated by single-country studies conducted mostly in Asia and Europe on a cross-section of industries, mostly adopting survey-based approaches with a cross-sectional time emphasis; (2) theoretically, dynamic capabilities view is mainly accompanied by resource-based view, followed by institutional-, organizational learning- and internationalization theories; and (3) according to the nomological network, DCs are predicted by firm-characteristics, factors related to networks/relationship/partnerships and managerial characteristics, while they act as predictors of performance-related, strategy-related and operational change and renewal-specific outcomes. Several problematic aspects and gaps for each part of the review are diagnosed.Originality/valueThe authors provide a comprehensive assessment of current knowledge on methodological, theoretical and empirical aspects of the relevant literature, map a nomological network of variables surrounding DCs in international marketing research and offer future research directions capitalizing on the problems and gaps identified in the review.

Analysis of the Process of RMB Internationalization with Special Emphasis on the Offshore Bond Markets

With rapid economic growth in recent years, China has become the world's second largest economy. In the context of economic globalization, the process of RMB internationalization is gradually accelerating, and remarkable achievements have been made in cross-border settlement and offshore market. This paper first reviews the relevant theories of currency internationalization and analyzes the historical conditions of the development of RMB internationalization. It reveals the internal and external driving forces of RMB internationalization and sorts out its development context. Taking the offshore bond market as the research object, the currency structure in the international bond market is selected as an index reflecting the degree of currency internationalization, and the determining model of international bond proportion is established. Using the data of 28 countries from 2005 to 2019, the regression analysis shows that a country's economic size and domestic macroeconomic stability are positively correlated with the level of currency internationalization, while foreign exchange reserves are negatively correlated. According to the model, the difference between the theoretical demand and the actual issuance of RMB international bonds is nearly 10 times. Therefore, it can be inferred that the offshore RMB bond market has great development potential.

Explainable AI classification for parton density theory

Quantitatively connecting properties of parton distribution functions (PDFs, or parton densities) to the theoretical assumptions made within the QCD analyses which produce them has been a longstanding problem in HEP phenomenology. To confront this challenge, we introduce an ML-based explainability framework, XAI4PDF, to classify PDFs by parton flavor or underlying theoretical model using ResNet-like neural networks (NNs). By leveraging the differentiable nature of ResNet models, this approach deploys guided backpropagation to dissect relevant features of fitted PDFs, identifying x-dependent signatures of PDFs important to the ML model classifications. By applying our framework, we are able to sort PDFs according to the analysis which produced them while constructing quantitative, human-readable maps locating the x regions most affected by the internal theory assumptions going into each analysis. This technique expands the toolkit available to PDF analysis and adjacent particle phenomenology while pointing to promising generalizations.

Mapping the evolution and future directions of creative tourism: a comprehensive bibliometric analysis

ABSTRACT The main objective of this study is to deepen the understanding of the knowledge structure in the field of creative tourism and thereby enhance communication with advanced international theories and experiences. We utilized two visualization tools, VOSviewer and CiteSpace, to analyze 138 platform research papers from the Web of Science Core Collection, comprising 7050 references. Combining quantitative analysis (such as scientometric analysis, knowledge mapping, and keyword clustering) with content analysis (including thematic reading), this study primarily focuses on three aspects: firstly, revealing the basic characteristics of the literature, such as publication metrics, authors, and research institutions, to outline the foundational landscape of the field; secondly, identifying key research areas, content, and development trends to provide profound insights into the advancement of creative tourism and suggest directions for future research; thirdly, constructing a comprehensive knowledge framework to consolidate existing information and insights, facilitating a more structured and accessible understanding of creative tourism.

Assessing the internationalization dynamics of emerging markets: a comprehensive analysis utilizing SWARA-WASPAS techniques

Purpose This paper aims to evaluate the internationalization of countries represented in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. The evaluation considers high-technology product imports, foreign direct investments, research and development expenditures, patent and industrial design applications, exports and gross domestic product (GDP) data, representing production. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses the Step-Wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) method to assess and rank the criteria for evaluating emerging markets. Four academics who are authorities in the field of foreign trade were consulted to weigh the criteria. The Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (WASPAS) method, considered one of the most reliable and robust MCDM techniques, was then used to evaluate and rank the countries. Findings The findings obtained during the research process reveal the internationalization dynamics of these countries based on the indicators they possess. As a result, it is observed which countries achieve higher performance in the internationalization process based on relevant criteria. Originality/value This study is theoretically unique and valuable as it simultaneously offers the potential for development to macro-level international trade theories, such as the technologic deficit hypothesis, and meso-level internationalization theories, such as the Uppsala model. Additionally, integrated multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods, which are not frequently used in cross-country studies, have been used, and the performance of emerging markets has been ranked. The findings obtained from this application distinguish the research from the existing literature by transforming it into a performance ranking rather than focusing on the antecedents or consequences of internationalization and their interactions.

The Privilege of Territory: Christian Wolff at the Origins of Statist International Thought

The modern state is often taken as the only legitimate claimant to the division of the globe. Political theorists offer many theories of territorial rights but tend to agree that the state remains the proper institutional bearer of such rights. This article examines how states became the exclusive bearers of territorial rights by returning to the international theory of the eighteenth-century Prussian jurist Christian Wolff (1679–1754), who wrote in a moment when sovereign states were not the heirs apparent to the globe but competed with other claimants to territorial rights. Despite proposing a radically pluralistic and anti-imperial account of land ownership, Wolff nonetheless paved the way for the state to become the sole bearer of territorial rights. Wolff’s international thought is an illustration of how building a state-centric international order was a double-edged sword: it criticized imperial overreach while also closing the international arena to nonstate forms of collective life. In this process, he offered two distinct ideas of political space: the territorial space of states, and the land ownership tracts of nonstate peoples, including pastoralists and nomads. To Wolff, only states were entitled to full and permanent territorial rights, while nonstate peoples were shut out of the international system, made both de facto and de jure stateless.

The influence of institutional void and socio-cultural factors on the internationalization of emerging multinationals

The process of firm internationalization involves critical decisions regarding location, entry mode, investment levels, and the management of foreign operations. This paper examines the effects of institutional voids and socio-cultural factors on the internationalization of Emerging Multinationals (EMNCs) from the BRICS and MENA regions. We draw on institutional and internationalization theories to explain how socio-cultural factors influence the internationalization of EMNCs. Using the two-step system GMM over a ten-year period (2012–2021), we find that institutional voids, religious diversity, power distance, and a firm’s ESG practices at home positively impact internationalization. These findings contribute to the literature by quantifying key variables related to internationalization, cultural diversity, institutional voids, power distance, and ESG engagement.

International entrepreneurial culture of born global and non-born global family firms: a configurational approach

PurposeDelving into family business heterogeneity, this study applies fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analyses (fsQCA) to explain overlooked differences in the international performance of born global family firms (BGFFs) and non-born global family firms (n-BGFFs); through the lens of assemblage theory of family business internationalization, the study develops distinctive configurations of international entrepreneurial culture (IEC) for BGFFs and n-BGFFs.Design/methodology/approachThis study compares the theoretical tenets of IEC among 167 BGFFs versus 192 n-BGFFs in Malaysia using fsQCA – a configurational method. The study further deploys necessity analysis of fsQCA (NCA) to determine the necessity conditions within the identified configurations.FindingsBGFFs manifest elevated levels of international entrepreneurial orientation, international motivation and international non-competitor network orientation. In contrast, n-BGFFs rely on international markets, learning and competitor network orientations to secure international performance. Furthermore, necessary condition analysis (NCA) reveals that international entrepreneurial orientation and international motivation are the necessity conditions for BGFFs. In contrast, international market, learning and competitor network orientation are all required for n-BGFFs’ international performance.Originality/valueThis study is timely and contributes to advancing the international business theory of family firm internationalization. It also offers better theorizing for family firms’ heterogeneity, locating the source of that heterogeneity not just in the speed of internationalization but also in the composition of their different IECs.

Exploratory research on the internationalization speed of small and medium-sized enterprises

ABSTRACT The emergence of multinational corporations (MNCs) and their impact on the post–World War II economy has led to studies on the internationalization of companies, including MNCs. Traditional theories, such as internalization theory and the stage model, have explained internationalization processes. However, some companies, known as “born globals,” adopt a leapfrog strategy, rapidly entering international markets. This study, focusing on Thai MNCs, examines how these companies, despite limited resources, achieve growth through effective timing, pace, and the process of internationalization. Findings suggest that strategic partnerships significantly accelerate the timing and pace of internationalization. Considering internationalization, company managers should join formal networks to learn about the international market and export operations to find strategic partners. In promoting networking, the government should try to incorporate companies and organizations that can serve as strategic partners. The government should also provide small and medium-sized enterprises with information from this perspective and foster international entrepreneurial orientation.

Grand narratives in critical international theory

Grand narratives in critical international theory

Analysis of the Brand Internationalization Status and Development Environment of Chinese Enterprises

Driven by the wave of economic globalization in the 21st century, brand internationalization has become an important strategic choice for the enterprise and even the national level. With the internationalization of the market, the transnational of enterprises, the multinational capital and the intensification of competition, the brand has become a key indicator to measure the economic strength of a country or region. Although Chinese enterprises have cost and product advantages in the international market, their brand advantages are relatively weak, which leads to the limited image of Chinese products in overseas markets, and faces intellectual property challenges and dumping charges. To meet this challenge, the Chinese government has included independent innovation and brand building as the focus of the 11th Five-Year Plan since 2005, with the aim of enhancing international competitiveness. However, Chinese enterprises still face many problems in the process of brand internationalization, including the lack of brand strategy, the lack of understanding of the importance of brand internationalization, and the lack of grasp of development models and methods. At present, the theoretical research of brand internationalization has not yet formed a systematic framework, and there is a relative lack of systematic research on enterprise brand internationalization. Moreover, the practical history of Chinese enterprises in this field is relatively short, which provides a broad space for theoretical research and practical exploration. This paper aims to provide theoretical reference and strategic guidance for Chinese enterprises to enhance their brand competitiveness in the international market through in-depth study of the theory and practice of brand internationalization. Through the elaboration of the relevant theory of brand internationalization, the analysis of the development environment of Chinese brand internationalization, and the construction of the development strategy and mode of enterprise brand internationalization, this paper discusses the support system of brand internationalization development, in order to provide systematic theoretical support for the road of brand internationalization of Chinese enterprises.

The Impact of Tax Policy on the Attractiveness of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): An Analysis of National Strategies and Economic Effects

In the context of globalization, the economic ties between countries are getting closer and closer, and capital flows are significantly stronger. Countries take measures to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), and among them, tax policy has a significant impact on the purpose of attracting foreign investment, as tax policy plays an important role in the country's macroeconomic policy. In this article, this paper will analyze the attractiveness of the tax policies adopted by FDI in recent years, and the impact of their tax policies on the economic effects of their respective countries, supported by the theories of internationalization, tax policy stability, and tax competition theory. Then, by summarizing and comparing the analysis, we can identify more attractive policies and analyze their reasons. Finally, it is concluded that tax policy plays a very important role in the development of the global economy, and countries can effectively attract foreign investment, promote economic growth and industrial upgrading by adjusting tax policies. However, due to the challenges of balancing attracting foreign investment with maintaining fair competition, tax base erosion and fiscal sustainability, countries need to improve policy transparency and stability, optimize the preferential tax structure, strengthen international tax cooperation and other measures to help their countries achieve higher quality development and bring higher economic benefits.

Non-voluntary BCI explantation: assessing possible neurorights violations in light of contrasting mental ontologies

In research involving patients with implantable brain–computer interfaces (BCIs), there is a regulatory gap concerning post-trial responsibilities and duties of sponsors and investigators towards implanted patients. In this article, we...

The Controversy of Child Marriage Culture in The Perspective of Maqāṣid al-Usrah: A Case Study of The Authority of Lebe' in Brebes

This research is backdroped by the role of Kiais (religious figures) whose opinions regarding the permissibility of child marriage are widely followed by their local community. It aims to investigate the relevance of child marriage law in the Regency of Brebes from the perspective of maqāṣid al-usrah. This research was conducted in Banjarharjo, Pararaja, Banjaran, and Brebes districts of the Regency of Brebes by employing legal anthropology and Ushul al-Fiqh approaches. The theories used in this research are internalization theory and maqāṣid al-usrah. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and document analysis. The practice of child marriage in Brebes society is, in principle, irrelevant to the concept of maqāṣid al-usrah, which was theoretically explained by Jamal al-Din 'Aṭiyyah. This research found that religious understanding that is internalized in the community traditions resulted in a fiqh product entitled Kitāb al-Nikah authored by an Indonesian ulama and the authority of Lebe' which has had a significant influence on the practice of child marriage in Brebes Regency. The practice of child marriage should not only be based on authoritative texts but also requires consideration of 'āqil bāligh as well as consideration of suitability, namely rushd (capability) as well as considering maqāṣid al-usrah, regulating the relationship between men and women (tanẓīm al-'alaqah bayn al-jinsayn), realization of peace, love, and compassion (taḥqīq al-sakn wa al-mawaddah wa al-raḥmah), maintaining religion in the family (hifz al-tadayyun fi al-usrah), regulating the essential aspects of the family (tanẓīm al-jānib al-mu'assasī li al-usrah), and Family Financial Regulation (tanẓīm al-jānib al-māl li al-usrah).

Businesses model innovation: a key role in the internationalisation of SMEs in the era of digitalisation

The study investigates the relationship between digital technology (DT) and the degree of internationalisation of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The theoretical model is further extended by reviewing the mediating effects of business model innovation (BMI). The study employed partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to test the hypotheses based on the cross-sectional data from 495 SMEs in Vietnam. The findings provide a novel perspective on the vital role of DT in BMI. However, DT poses challenges for SMEs in the degree of the internationalisation process. This study combines the internationalisation theory, particularly the Uppsala model and the resource-based view to examine the impact of DT on the internationalisation of SMEs through the mediating role of BMI.

Family firms and the governance of global value chains

The current evolution of global value chains (GVCs) calls for moving beyond the “unipolar” view of lead multinational enterprises (MNEs) as sole rulers to examine how their characteristics and those of partner firms affect GVC governance. In response to this call, we focus on family firms, which are the most ubiquitous organizational form worldwide and represent the majority of firms participating in GVCs. Unlike non-family firms, these organizations face distinct mixed gambles, driven by both economic and non-economic goals. However, internalization theory and the associated global factory model, which explain GVC governance, rely solely on economic assessments, limiting our understanding and predictability of MNE behavior. Therefore, in this study, we show how location decisions, degree of internalization, and relationship management in GVCs differ from the conventional global factory model when family firms are involved as lead MNEs and/or partners. By analyzing how comparative efficiency considerations change when family firms are involved, we offer implications for internalization theory and provide a more comprehensive framework for understanding control and trust dynamics in GVCs. Thus, we pave the way for future research to revise and enrich international business theories, taking into account the distinctiveness and heterogeneity of family firms.

Decision Making in the Internationalization of the Service Industry and the Applicability of Manufacturing Industry Internationalization Theories

Decision Making in the Internationalization of the Service Industry and the Applicability of Manufacturing Industry Internationalization Theories

The Myth of Westphalian Common Sense: Abjuration and Republicanism in Quilombos's Palmares

The essay addresses a concern that significant dimensions of the consciousness and language associated with modern revolutions have gone missing from discussions related to agency. It centers on Quilombos, who in the early seventeenth century created Palmares as a unique constitutional experiment and yet have been excluded from disciplinary common sense in political and international theories on the matters of modern consciousness, constitutionalism, and republicanism. The essay revisit questions of world-historical events that cast Africans as outside of time. The author counters disciplinary common sense by revisiting the moral statuses of modern political apologias, which are associated with the will to independence, and abjurations, taken to be formative expressions of self-determination. Both modern apologias and abjurations are taken to be the point of origination of modern consciousness associated with the birth of modern republicanism. Quilombo revolution demonstrates that political rationality, which underpins political action, is an expression of cognitive, material, and symbolic conditions due to time. The associated consciousness and actions may simultaneously take place across multiple spaces. This is to say that the expression of political subjectivity, which is a matter of consciousness and language, may in time be more widespread than parochial or national histories suggest. The Dutch and Quilombos revolutions prove this point.

Unpacking Stimuli and Barriers to Internationalization Across Export Stages: The Case of Spanish Wine Firms in China

ABSTRACTFirm internationalization has been analyzed from different angles based on various theories. However, qualitative research on the stability of the factors that motivate and hinder internationalization across the export stages in emerging markets is limited. This study builds on the “stages” theories of internationalization, providing a detailed analysis of the perceived stability of stimuli and barriers during the exploration, entry, and expansion stages. We focus on a sample of Spanish wine firms exporting to China—a key wine market, with annual growth rates of over 25% between 2000 and 2020. The results suggest that the perception of most barriers is stage‐dependent, varying over time as commitment levels evolve. The main stimuli, on the other hand, remain constant across the different export stages. Moreover, we find that firm size, international experience, and access to local and international networks are key factors that influence the evolution of firms' internationalization in China, while lateral rigidity continues to constrain the expansion of smaller companies. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges of doing business in an emerging market, particularly in the institutional context in China, as well as their evolution over different stages of internationalization. Furthermore, they offer insights into the dynamics of the Chinese wine market and the implications for European exporters.