International Theory and the Problem of Sustainable Critique

Daniel Levine
Peace and Conflict Studies Program, Colgate University, USA

Surveying recent developments in the discipline of International Relations, this article argues for sustainable critique: a mode of theorizing about world politics that is both responsive to real world-events, and deeply self-reflexive vis-à-vis its normative commitments. Using Genesis 34 as a parable, and drawing on the work of Theodor W. Adorno, I show why sustainable critique is needed in IR, and what work it would do; I then indicate those normative commitments needed to advance it. Finally, I survey recent theoretical innovations in IR in light of the challenge that sustainable critique poses.

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© borderlands ejournal 2011