Thursday 15 October 2009

Why is theory important in IR?


There is a general growing perception that theory is divorced from practice; that more emphasis should be placed on applied studies rather than theory. However, what people fail to realise is that theory has a significant impact on applied studies and practice.

International Relations as an academic discipline was formed after the first world war in the (University of Wales) Aberystwyth in 1919 it is a fairly new science amongst the social sciences. Without theories, students will be analysing mere facts and data. By studying theories students will be able to look beyond what is available of facts and analyse International Relations and to then develop a broader understanding and knowledge and diminish preconceptions.

To summarise, theories are the starting point when looking at matters in International Relations. It enables one to look towards and focus on what is important.