A Pre-Theory on International Relations: a Middle-Eastern Viewpoint

Document Type : Research Paper

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Abstract

The main goal of this article is to examine the preconditions of providing a sort of consensus-native pre-theory of international relations with a Middle Eastern viewpoint. Given the existence of theoretical elements in the Middle East, is it possible to provide a non-Western and non-deterministic theory with a Middle Eastern reading? This approach requires borrowing from critical theories of international relations and psychological constructivism in order to complete these elements. Obviously, consensus among Iranian, Turk and Arab scholars of international relations over a united ontology, epistemology and methodology for studying international relations will pave the way for this theoretical alternative. In other words, the academic realms of international relations, particularly in Arab countries are strongly affected by realism and neo-realism. They consider their societies’ domestic developments as a function of political interactions of great powers and the material distribution of international system. The main aims of this article include: the pathology of this approach, promoting cooperation regarding alternative theoretical patterns for studying international interactions, and knowledge of international relations relying on the theoretical consensus of the Middle Eastern international relations.

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