Eleventh Global Studies Conference

Abstract

International Relations (IR) is usually considered a theoretical contribution of the Global North. However, there are contributions in the field of IR in Global South as well. The world has diverse knowledge systems and many ways of understanding the self and realities around. It is in this background that this paper argues that we have our own resources to understand and theorise IR as a discipline in the Global South and it’s time we explore them. The South needs to critically engage with available western knowledge and unravel the possibility of creating alternative IR knowledge and perspectives. The paper explores some alternative methods to understand IR.For example, there is a lack of serious and critical engagement with Nehru’s contribution in IR. It reflects how non-Western perspectives have been marginalized. Nehru’s contribution needs to be revisited and analysed. His worldview represented idealism predominantly, yet realism can also be observed. Nehru linked the domains of policy making as well as intellectual analyses and assessment in IR. This paper explores some of these issues. In constructing a conceptual framework of IR, Nehru played a significant role in India’s foreign policy. His theoretical formulations included Panchsheel, Non-Alignment, colonialism and racism. He differed with the existing dominant IR paradigm, avoided the power blocs, advocated One World, and founded NAM. Critical of power politics, he advocated collective security arrangements and strong international institutions.This study examines how Nehru attempted to democratise IR and has potential of humanizing IR. It explores how a critical rethinking of Nehru’s ideas can help in creating alternative imaginations of IR. The intellectual contributions of Indian IR to Global IR are foregrounded in this disciplinary examination while recognizing its multiple and diverse foundations.