Sociology Essay: Critical Analysis of International Relations Theories

This sociology essay provides a critical analysis of International Relations (IR) theories, examining both traditionalist and positivist viewpoints concerning the scientific study of international relations. It agrees with the use of scientific methods for researching IR, highlighting the importance of data collection and testing theories against real-world failures. The essay also analyzes the debate between scientific and historical approaches to international politics, acknowledging the ever-changing nature of international politics and the potential drawbacks of relying solely on scientific philosophy. The analysis references the application of positivism and the limitations of classical political approaches, emphasizing the ongoing debate regarding the nature of international politics. The essay concludes by referencing key works in the field, underscoring the complexities and continuous evolution of IR theories.

Running head: SOCIOLOGY
Sociology
Name of Student
Name of University
Author Note

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SOCIOLOGY
Table of Contents
Critical analysis of the first response.........................................................................................2
Critical analysis of the second response.....................................................................................2
Reference....................................................................................................................................3

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SOCIOLOGY
Critical analysis of the first response
Analysis can be made about the critical manner in which IR theories can be implied in
the existing society. In this regard, I agree with the responses and view point of the
traditionalists as well as the positivists are taken into consideration that involve the scientific
as well as the effective collection of data for conducting any form of research on IR.
However, as pointed out by Gilpin (2016) the scientific philosophy associated with IR can be
tested with the opportunities that are provided via the failure of implementing the concept in
a proper manner. I believe that scientific research that are conducted help in gaining a tried
and tested result about the impact of IR and the manner in which international affairs can
predict the development of IR rules and laws. In my opinion the rapid change of the world
can be analysed based on the implementation of IR theories and the by-laws that are
associated with it.
Critical analysis of the second response
International politics can be understood with the perception that is associated with the
scientific as well as historical methods. However, I can think of one drawback that can result
in international politics is the fact that it keeps on changing. The application of science in this
regard can be related to the fact that philosophy associated with science as well as positive
methodology. I agree with the fact that the application of positivism as a scientific approach
need to be made enthusiastically so that application of the systems can be made for forming a
hypothetical situation. Baylis, Smith and Owens (2017) are of the opinion that the application
of classic political approach lacked the rigour with the focus being mainly on the statistical
modelling associated with international politics. Hence, I believe the debate on scientific and
historical approach on international politics can be long lasting with no proper solution about
its nature.

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SOCIOLOGY
Reference
Baylis, J., Smith, S. and Owens, P. eds., 2017. The globalization of world politics: an
introduction to international relations. Oxford University Press.
Gilpin, R., 2016. The political economy of international relations. Princeton University Press.