What are some postmodernist concerns with realist interpretations of reality? Discuss how postmodernism would critique the realist notion of states as the central actors in international relations. Be sure to include at least one relevant example from international relations in support of the postmodernist critique.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The ideal answer should include:
1. Identify the key characteristics of postmodernism in international relations.
2. Describe some postmodernist concerns with realist interpretation of reality. For example, postmodern critiques of realism center on analyzing realists' words and arguments. A central idea of postmodernism is that there is no single, objective reality but a multiplicity of experiences and perspectives that defy easy categorization.
3. Explain how postmodernists critique the realist notion of states as the central actors in international relations. For example, from a postmodern perspective, realism cannot justify its claim that states are the central actors in IR and that states operate as unitary actors with coherent sets of objective interests. Postmodern critics of realism see nothing objective about state interests, and certainly nothing universal.
4. Include at least one example supporting postmodernism in your answer. For example, realists treated the Soviet Union as a single actor with a single set of objective interests. But the Soviet Union split into 15 pieces, each containing its own fractious groups and elements. Then, it became clear that the "unitary state" called the Soviet Union had let realists ignore the divergent experiences of constituent republics, ethnic groups, and individuals.
5. Offer a concise summary and effective conclusion.