Questioning Cognitivism and Constructivism in IR Theory: Reflections on the Material Structure of Ideas |
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Authors: | Andreas Bieler |
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Affiliation: | Cambridge University |
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Abstract: | In recent years, it has been highlighted in international relations theory that mainstream approaches neglect the role of ideas in relation to the formation of interests and international co-operation. This article critically discusses the renewed emphasis on ideas. 'Cognitive' and 'constructivist' approaches are outlined as the two main strands in the debate and a neo-Gramscian position within it is sketched. Importantly, a neo-Gramscian position is able to conceptualise the material structure of ideas, thereby overcoming the separation between ideas and material structure from the very beginning. |
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