Social Sciences in China (Chinese Edition)

No.8, 2019

Paradigm Synthesis and the Reconstruction of International Relations Theory—An Analysis of the Realist Example

(Abstract)

Liu Feng

The academic history of international relations has long been dominated by “inter-paradigm debates,” which have restricted the space for theoretical innovation and the increase of knowledge. With a view to transcending the paradigm-centric perspective, researchers have sought in recent years to look at non-Western experience, draw on interdisciplinary knowledge, and explore a variety of theoretical syntheses, thus propelling international relations theory toward a multi-inclusive attitude. “Paradigm synthesis” is unlike this approach in that it is mainly aimed at solving contradictions and disconnections between the different branches of the main paradigms and reconstructing a theoretical synthesis by reclassifying core concepts and clarifying causal mechanisms. In so doing, it aims to eliminate logical and experiential conflicts between prototype theories and to promote consistency and coherence within paradigms. For example, in the defense-offense dichotomy of the realist paradigm, defense and offense are simply the two most extreme security strategies adopted by the state in an anarchic system. There are transitional and intermediate types between these strategies, and the type of strategies adopted by the major powers in a particular period results from both the shaping of the system environment and the dynamic choices of individual countries.