Between Philosophy, Literature, and Social Science: Political Theory as the Disciplinary "Other"
Type
presentation
Date Issued
2015-10-17
Author(s)
Abstract
In-between spaces are fraught with risks and uncertainties as they keep their occupants in limbo, without a clear destination or sense of belonging. Although modern academia encourages researchers to move across disciplinary boundaries and leave established turfs, one may at times risk "disciplinary homelessness" by doing so. In the case of Political Theory, some argue that a whole sub-discipline finds itself in such an in-between space without definite prospects. Traditionally, theorists are part of political science faculties and are therefore regularly confronted with the standards, logic, and mores of the social sciences. Being at the margins of their own departments and professional associations, theorists often reach out beyond the boundaries of their alleged main discipline, political science, to join the debates in political philosophy. Shared research interests alone, however, do not necessarily bridge differences in disciplinary traditions, vocabulary, and method. As a result, theorists often contend themselves with a doubly marginal role.
I suggest that the study of literature does not only enrich Political Theory as such, but it also helps establish interdisciplinary bridges. On the one hand, Political Theory has gained insights from fiction that are relevant for more empirically driven subfields in political science and can alter the way researchers think about key concepts in, for instance, international relations or political socialization. On the other hand, venturing into the field of literature puts both political theorists and philosophers on less charted territory, enabling them to ignore divisive practices and develop a shared perspective.
I suggest that the study of literature does not only enrich Political Theory as such, but it also helps establish interdisciplinary bridges. On the one hand, Political Theory has gained insights from fiction that are relevant for more empirically driven subfields in political science and can alter the way researchers think about key concepts in, for instance, international relations or political socialization. On the other hand, venturing into the field of literature puts both political theorists and philosophers on less charted territory, enabling them to ignore divisive practices and develop a shared perspective.
Language
English
Keywords
politics and literature
philosophy and literature
political theory
history of politica thought
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Refereed
No
Event Title
Workshop Literature and Philosophy
Event Location
University of St.Gallen
Subject(s)
Division(s)
Eprints ID
244698