سازه انگاري به عنوان فرانظريه روابط بين الملل

CONSTRUCTIVISM AS A METATHEORY FOR INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Constructivism can be more seen as a metatheory than a substantive theory of international relations. As a metatheory it is seen as a via media at ontological and epistemological levels. This article attempts to clarify and evaluate constructivist metatheory. Following an introduction on the meaning, significance and relevance of metatheoretical issues for IR theory, the ontological foundations discussed by various IR constructivists will be examined. It is argued that constructivistsʹ emphasis on the role of language, rules, norms, etc. in international relations besides material structures, the co-constitution of agents and structures, and the potential capacity of constructivism to include non-state actors make it a viable via media. Epistemologically, it believes in the possibilty of knowledge but denies much of the positivist assumptions and, principles; it is methodologically open and at the same time, emphasizes the importance of interpretation and verstehen; and although it is concerned with normative issues, it does not take normative positions in international relations. The article concludes with an evaluation of constructivism with an emphasis on the necessity of avoiding to see it as a monolithic metatheory in international relations.