After Theory, Before Big Data: Thinking about Praxis, Politics and International Affairs

This book challenges mainstream social science and its dominant methodology, demonstrating the unavailability of a universal scientific procedure for finding the facts when facing practical choices and issues of social reproduction. It is of interest to upper-level students of IR, sociology, history, and philosophy of science, as well as students of security, foreign policy making, migration, and political economy.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 186 pages
\n Publication date: 14 July 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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The primary objective of this book is to actively contribute to the ongoing theoretical discourse within the field of international relations (IR) concerning the status of grand theories. However, its overarching mission extends far beyond this realm. It seeks to critically interrogate mainstream social science and its prevailing methodology, as well as the unwavering belief in the ability of scientific knowledge to solve societal problems. The author employs a rigorous philosophical analysis to delve into the unexamined assumptions that underpin many contemporary scholars in IR, highlighting the impossibility of a universal scientific procedure for ascertaining the truth when faced with practical choices and issues of social reproduction.

This book holds significant appeal to upper-level students studying IR, sociology, history, and the philosophy of science. It will also resonate with students enrolled in courses related to security, foreign policymaking, migration, and political economy, as it provides a foundational understanding of the attitudes that shape their worldviews and the role of scholarship in shaping their perspectives.

By challenging the status quo IR grand theories and examining the limitations of mainstream social science, this book offers a fresh and thought-provoking perspective on the complex dynamics of international relations. It encourages readers to critically evaluate the assumptions underlying their beliefs and to explore alternative approaches to understanding the world. Through its rigorous analysis and engaging writing style, this book serves as a valuable resource for scholars and students alike, contributing to the ongoing dialogue and advancement of the field.

\n Weight: 308g\n
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 24 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781032006536\n \n