Theorizing World Orders: Cognitive Evolution and Beyond

This book discusses Emanuel Adler's social theory of cognitive evolution and its potential contributions to the study of world orders and IR theory. It highlights the need for new analytical tools to understand the turbulent times we live in and identifies new theoretical vistas to break new ground in International Relations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The turbulent times we live in demand new analytical tools to comprehend and navigate the complex dynamics of international politics. This volume explores the potential of engaging with Emanuel Adler's social theory of cognitive evolution to achieve these goals. Eminent scholars in the field of International Relations delve into various aspects of Adler's theory, assessing its potential contributions to the study of world orders and IR theory more broadly. Each chapter focuses on a distinct aspect of the social theory of cognitive evolution, such as power, morality, materiality, narratives, and practices, while also identifying new theoretical horizons that pave the way for groundbreaking advancements in International Relations. In the concluding chapter, Adler engages in a lively dialogue with the contributors, further enriching the insights offered in the volume. This book appeals to scholars and advanced students of International Relations theory, particularly those interested in evolutionary and constructivist approaches.

Introduction:
The world is facing unprecedented challenges and transformations, driven by global trends such as economic globalization, technological advancements, and political instability. In such a complex and rapidly changing environment, it is crucial to develop new analytical tools and frameworks to understand the dynamics of international politics and identify the directions in which international relations will evolve.

Emanuel Adler's Social Theory of Cognitive Evolution:
Emanuel Adler's social theory of cognitive evolution offers a valuable framework for understanding the evolution of human societies and the dynamics of international relations. According to Adler, cognitive evolution is a process of continuous learning and adaptation that shapes the development of human societies and their interactions with each other. The theory emphasizes the importance of social structures, narratives, and practices in shaping human behavior and the formation of world orders.

Potential Contributions of Adler's Theory to International Relations:
Adler's theory has the potential to contribute significantly to the study of international relations. By exploring the role of cognitive processes in shaping human behavior and world orders, scholars can gain a deeper understanding of the factors that drive conflict, cooperation, and change in international relations. The theory also provides insights into the dynamics of power, morality, and materiality in international relations, which are essential for analyzing the complex interactions between states and other actors.

Chapter Summaries:
The book is divided into several chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of Adler's theory. In Chapter 1, "Power and World Orders," scholars explore the relationship between power and cognitive processes in shaping world orders. They discuss how power is not only a physical force but also a cognitive construct that is shaped by human beliefs, values, and perceptions. The chapter also highlights the role of narratives and practices in reinforcing power structures and maintaining world orders.

In Chapter 2, "Morality and International Relations," scholars examine the role of morality in shaping human behavior and international relations. They discuss how moral beliefs and values influence decision-making processes and the formation of alliances and conflicts. The chapter also explores the role of moral norms and institutions in promoting cooperation and stability in international relations.

In Chapter 3, "Materiality and International Relations," scholars explore the role of materiality in shaping human behavior and international relations. They discuss how material resources, such as land, oil, and water, influence the distribution of power and the formation of alliances and conflicts. The chapter also highlights the role of technology and innovation in shaping the dynamics of international relations.

In Chapter 4, "Narratives and International Relations," scholars examine the role of narratives in shaping human behavior and international relations. They discuss how narratives, such as myths, legends, and cultural narratives, influence the formation of identities and the interpretation of events. The chapter also explores the role of media and propaganda in shaping public perceptions and influencing international relations.

In Chapter 5, "Practices and International Relations," scholars explore the role of practices in shaping human behavior and international relations. They discuss how practices, such as rituals, ceremonies, and norms, influence the formation of social identities. The chapter also highlights the role of institutions and organizations in promoting cooperation and stability in international relations.

In Chapter 6, "Conclusion," Adler responds to the contributions of the contributors and engages in a rich dialogue with them. He discusses the limitations of his theory and the potential for further refinement and development. He also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research and the need to integrate different perspectives and disciplines to understand the complex dynamics of international relations.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this volume offers a valuable contribution to the study of international relations by exploring the potential of engaging with Emanuel Adler's social theory of cognitive evolution. The book provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex dynamics of international relations, and it highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research and the need to integrate different perspectives and disciplines to understand the complex dynamics of international relations. By engaging with Adler's theory, scholars and advanced students of International Relations theory can gain a deeper understanding of the factors that drive conflict, cooperation, and change in international relations and develop new analytical tools and frameworks to navigate the turbulent times we live in.

Weight: 566g
Dimension: 159 x 237 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781316512289