Question
Asked 30 October 2017

Can two theories be combined ( postcolonialism and neorealism)?

I am writing a research paper for my international relations studies on theories of international relations. In this paper I analyse critique from a postcolonial perspective on the neorealist theory of nuclear weapons (how they should be able to maintain peace through a deterrent strategy). In the last part of the paper I then question whether we should from now on combine these two theories or if that combination is even possible considering that theories can not explain everything and that they are just abstractations of reality. I am looking for more literature on this matter.

Most recent answer

Vladimir Grekov
University of Cologne
Basically not only can, but also should... At least as the motivation/approach to some certain field of studies (in constructing political (self-)perception, for example) should work quite good

Popular answers (1)

Greg Rublee
La Trobe University
Of course you can. Theories are essentially world views or lenses through which we examine and try to make sense of something. The best researchers actively look to more than one theoretical framework for insight. I tend to prefer a social constructivist approach to the study of political phenomena, but I find value in the Critical Theory approach, neoliberalism and even realism. Together, they help me develop a deeper understanding and holistic outlook. Any academic who is so wed to a single theoretical lens that he or she cannot find value in other approaches is, in my view, stunted.
3 Recommendations

All Answers (5)

Jonathan Fox
Bar Ilan University
I don't see how the two can be combines since they are based on very different assumptions. Also the advocates of either school would most likely not be pleased with the combination so don't try it if your professor favors either of the schools.
Greg Rublee
La Trobe University
Of course you can. Theories are essentially world views or lenses through which we examine and try to make sense of something. The best researchers actively look to more than one theoretical framework for insight. I tend to prefer a social constructivist approach to the study of political phenomena, but I find value in the Critical Theory approach, neoliberalism and even realism. Together, they help me develop a deeper understanding and holistic outlook. Any academic who is so wed to a single theoretical lens that he or she cannot find value in other approaches is, in my view, stunted.
3 Recommendations
Srinjoy Bose
UNSW Sydney
You most definitely can "dialogue" between the two approaches/theories - in fact, as a scholar, this is imperative. What you may wish to consider now is: how does this dialogue inform both the research puzzle/problem and conceptual framework?
Kiran Grover
Dayanand Anglo-Vedic College, Abohar
You most definitely can "dialogue" between the two theories - this is imperative. I appreciate Srinjoy Bose answer.
Vladimir Grekov
University of Cologne
Basically not only can, but also should... At least as the motivation/approach to some certain field of studies (in constructing political (self-)perception, for example) should work quite good

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