Realism and Liberalism Through Feminist Lenses

POLS 7207-Spring 2011

ANDREIA WEDDLE

Realism and Liberalism through Feminist lenses

With the increased interdependence among states as a result of the process of globalization, the field of International Relations has faced major challenges. It no longer revolves around the issue of war and security but has expanded to include concerns such as human rights, non-state actors and civil society which are characteristic of liberal view. Aside from the theories of realism and liberalism, the feminist theory brings new angle to the field of international relations.

The question is if the feminist theory has a strong argument to transform or challenge the field of international relations. Can the feminist improve the discourse of international relations in a significant way? Can they add a significance challenge to its discourse?

The feminist theory is centered around two major key terms: gender and patriarchy. Feminist define “gender” as a set of socially and culturally constructed characteristics that vary across time and place. Using this concept, feminist analyze relations of power involving men and women, dissect how that power is exercised , and how that interaction has been historically and socially put into practice over time. “Patriarchy” is defined as a system in which females are subordinate to men in terms of power and status. Patriarchy is based- more or less- on the belief that it is right and suitable for men to command and women to obey.

Feminist theory states that most of the key actors in international relations (such as diplomats, policymakers, heads of government and academic professionals) have been and still are males who come from a patriarchal political background. As a result, the dialogue within IR remains controlled by those who lack appreciation and consideration (it is because they have not been trained to value and embrace the women’s perspective) for women roles in world politics. Feminist apply the terms “gender” and...