Chapter 11

Pick a concrete issue, such as for example the distribution of power in the world at the end of the Cold War. What are the differences between a behaviouralist and a traditional approach to that issue?
What is the methodological difference between scientifically explaining an international phenomenon and historically interpreting an international event or episode? Are those methodologies compatible or contradictory?
Compare the IR methodologies of Kaplan and Waltz. Which is more satisfactory?
Summarize the main issues in the debate between positivists and post‑positivists. Which side in the debate do you favour? Why?
Identify at least two major post‑positivist approaches. What are the most significant methodological similarities and differences between them?
What is the better way of looking at IR methodologies: as categorically different or as conceptually overlapping?
Outline the methodological outlooks of the classical approach and normative theory. Are there any significant differences between them or are they basically the same approach?
Is it possible to study IR without a methodological approach?
Is it possible to argue that certain IR methodologies are preferable on scientific grounds? Or is the choice of methodology a matter of non-scientific or even personal preference?
Are IR methodologies ideologies in disguise? Give examples of methodologies and ideologies in your answer.

Oxford University Press, Online Resource Centre, Chapter 11.