E. H. Carr: Imperialism, War and Lessons for Post-Colonial IR

This book highlights the parallels between Carr and three influential figures in the first wave of post-colonialism—DuBois, Césaire, and Fanon—on the analysis of imperialism and the causes of war. Carr's work historically situates imperialism in the context of the social question in Western democracies and provides an ideology critique to Enlightenment rationalism, exposing the Enlightenment's pretences of reason and universality as a deceptive plea that legitimates imperialism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 193 pages
Publication date: 10 May 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book delves into profound connections between Carr and three influential figures of the first wave of post-colonialism: DuBois, Césaire, and Fanon. Through a meticulous analysis of imperialism and its underlying causes, Carr highlights striking parallels between his ideas and those of these visionary thinkers. Firstly, Carr's work situates imperialism within the broader context of the social question in Western democracies. He recognizes the historical roots of imperialism and its connection to the unequal power dynamics between nations. By examining the social and political structures that perpetuate imperialism, Carr offers a critical perspective on Enlightenment rationalism, which posits that reason can establish universally valid moral laws and guide individuals toward political enlightenment and progress. Carr's ideology critique exposes the deceptive nature of Enlightenment rationalism, revealing how it serves as a justification for imperialism.

Secondly, Carr's work provides a profound critique of Enlightenment rationalism's belief in the universality of knowledge and reason. He challenges the notion that there is a single, objective truth that applies to all people and societies. Instead, Carr argues that the episteme of empire, which encompasses the meanings and modalities of seeing and knowing that accompany empire and make it possible in the first place, shapes the way individuals perceive and understand the world. This episteme is characterized by a hierarchical worldview that privileges certain cultures and knowledge systems over others, perpetuating the power imbalances that underpin imperialism.

In conclusion, this book sheds light on the intricate connections between Carr and the first wave of post-colonialism. It demonstrates that Carr's ideas were much closer to post-colonial thinking than previously recognized within the discipline. By exploring the parallels between Carr's analysis of imperialism and war and the ideas of DuBois, Césaire, and Fanon, the book reveals the rich tapestry of ideas that shaped the post-colonial era. Carr's work not only sheds light on the historical roots of imperialism but also provides a critical framework for understanding the ongoing challenges of global inequality and the need for alternative perspectives on knowledge and power.

Weight: 274g
Dimension: 209 x 147 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030993627
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022