(Neo)realism and (Neo)liberalism as IR Paradigm Maintainer Theories

As Thomas Kuhn shows, not all theories are considered “paradigm theories;” some are more integral to authenticating and replicating the assumptions, norms, and mentalities that a paradigm embodies. This chapter identifies (neo)realism and (neo)liberalism as examples of the theories Kuhn calls paradigm theories. It then goes on to demonstrate that IR paradigm maintainer theories replicate and authenticate the classic conception of state sovereignty that demarcates the world into an inside versus an outside, and in so doing, provide ‘statesmen’ with the knowledge required to make a timeless case for war to be waged outside state territories. In lockstep with Hobbes, as well as the paradigm maintainer theorists, the rationale for conflict is attributed to ‘man’ and the ‘state of nature.’ The knowledge/power effect of this mentality renders war inevitable, indeed a perpetual condition of possibility, in this case to the detriment of a global peace. To this end, both (neo)realists and (neo)liberals elevate statism and militarism to the position of chief subject and object of analysis, in the process enabling and normalizing arms race policies among states. The knowledge that informs such policies frames, by default, the global governance of peace as a political mirage, that is, a distant and inconceivable reality.