Widening the World of IR: A Typology of Homegrown Theorizing

Authors : Ersel Aydınlı, Gonca Biltekin

Pages : 45-68

Doi:10.20991/allazimuth.328427

View : 16 | Download : 9

Publication Date : 2017-07-14

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :It is rare that a recognized voice from non-Western world makes an impression in   International Relations theory. While a few studies have looked at the structural  and institutional constraints that contribute to such lack of recognition, part  of the problem stems from confusion around the definition of what theorizing  out of the non-Western world actually is. Based on a review of studies that  embody indigenous conceptualizations of international phenomena in the  periphery, we first define such ‘homegrown’ theorizing as original theorizing in  the periphery about the periphery. By elaborating on these conceptualizations’  specific methods in building theories, we then provide a typology of homegrown  theories and assess each theory building method in terms of its potential for  global acceptance and further development. We substantiate our arguments on  global acceptance by drawing on a comparison of the citation counts of 18  homegrown theories. In doing so, we try to give voice to some of the most  prominent scholarly and intellectual efforts stemming from the periphery,  and provide a guide for Western scholars on how to engage with homegrown  theorizing in a more intellectually stimulating manner. The article concludes  by highlighting a number of critical factors in opening up space for different  voices in the world of IR.
Keywords : International Relations theory, core and periphery, homegrown theory, theory building, non Western IRT, post Western IR