« Home

Home » Politics » Jackson & Sørensen: Introduction to International Relations 3e » Student resources » Case studies » Chapter 11

Jackson & Sørensen: Introduction to International Relations 3e

Chapter 11

Methodological Debates

The Study of IR is punctuated by methodological debates and controversies. When we study an issue, problem or episode we must ask ourselves what is the most appropriate methodology. Suppose the issue is the 2003 American-British invasion of Iraq. There are different methodological approaches that we could take. We will have to decide among them. The best way to do that is to begin asking questions about the event. That will give us a clue about what in particular is of most interest to us and what information we require to begin to answer the questions.

Suppose we are most interested in the foreign policy goals and interests of the US in taking military action against Iraq. If that is what we are interested in analyzing, we could adopt a policy analysis approach or a rational choice theory approach to the topic. (See web link resource for relevant websites.) On the other hand, suppose we are interested in the reasons the US and Britain gave for taking such action and the reasons France and Germany gave for not supporting such action. If that is what we are interested in analyzing, we could adopt a classical approach or a normative approach to the topic. (See web link resource for relevant websites.)

Assignments:

  1. Go to the US Government website on the internet, and search relevant sites (such as the Office of the President and the State Department) for documentary information on US policy regarding Iraq. Which methodological approach is best for constructing an argument with that information?

  2. Go to the United Nations website on the internet, and search relevant UN Security Council resolutions and other documents for information on the reasons that the US and Britain give for justifying their action, and the reasons that France and Germany gave for not agreeing with it. Which methodological approach is best for constructing an argument with that information?