International Relations Theories Around The World

INTERNATIONAL RELATION THEORIES
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The world has shifted its attention to a period beyond that of western colonization and into one that is influenced by non-western cultures, which have managed to gain political autonomy. The fact that western international relation theories have managed to be the first to be developed in the field acts as an advantage. However, the theories only represent a fraction of world politics and cannot be applied to a global political scenario. Having realized this gap in the international relations literature, several scholars have conducted research to develop theories based on other non-western cultures.
In the journal article, Toward a Post-Western IR: The Umma, Khalsa Panth, and Critical International Relations Theory, Shani investigates the likelihood of the development a highly effective non-western and non-European international relations theory. The theory proposed by Shani is based on the Sikhism, and Islam cosmopolitan traditions. Shani acknowledges that the current international relations’ theories are influenced by western traditions and politics. However, to develop theories that will be beneficial in solving international problems, Shani suggests that a new method of analysis in international relation which is less dependent on the west is crucial. To develop the critical international relation theories, Shani examines the Umma and Khalsa Panth, by taking a look at the Islamist discourses of the Umma, which are simultaneously critical of the different forms of neo-fundamentalism and Kemalism, which are most dominant in the world of Islam. Shani also examines the Klasa Panth to establish a critical perspective of the group as more than just a spiritual community, and instead, portrays it as a political community that was able to live independently without the leadership of a Guru. Shani’s analysis portrays the importance of respecting diversity as a universal value. Based on the analysis, Shani argues that a critical international relation would need to consider the foundation on which a dialogue between civilizations should be built on for the theory to be inclusive of cultural differences.
Acharya’s article, Dialogue and Discovery: In Search of International Relations Theories beyond the West, also acknowledges the lack of enough literature and theories that include the experiences of non-western communities. Acharya states that it is possible to develop alternative theories from the Western IR theories that originate from non-western experiences and contexts. Based on the study, the author identifies that our collective failure to foster and understand the development of international relations as a two-way dialogue. Acharya states that theories in International relations should acknowledge the global heritage.
Similarly, Alagappa seeks to offer insights on international relations in non-western countries. In the article, International Relations studies in Asia: distinctive trajectories, Alagappa focuses on international relations in Asian countries, more specifically China, India, and Asia. Reason being, Asian nations have risen to become major contributors in the world economics and politics. The study analyzes the development of inter...