I.R Theories

Post-Colonialism

Western-centric IR theory ignores the Global South's experiences. Colonial legacies continue to shape contemporary world politics.

Feminism

Examines how gender shapes and is shaped by international politics. Mainstream IR theory carries masculine assumptions that marginalise women's experiences. - Challenges this.

English School

States form an international society governed by shared norms, rules, and institutions — even without a world government. A middle ground between realism and liberalism.

Liberalism

International cooperation is possible through institutions, trade, and democracy. The democratic peace thesis holds that democracies rarely go to war with each other.

Marxism / Critical Theory

Economic structures and capitalism are the driving forces in global politics. The international system perpetuates inequality between rich and poor states.

Neorealism

The structure of the international system — specifically anarchy — compels states toward power-seeking behaviour, regardless of their internal characteristics.

Neoliberal Institutionalism

Accepts the realist premise of anarchy but argues international institutions enable cooperation by reducing transaction costs and increasing transparency.

Realism

States are primary actors in an anarchic system, driven by self-interest and power. Conflict is an inevitable feature of international life.

Constructivism

International relations are shaped by ideas, norms, and identities — not purely material forces. State interests form through social interaction and shared meanings.