Critical international relations theories and the study of Arab uprisings: a critique

Ahmed Abozaid*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study articulates that most of the critical theorists are still strikingly neglecting the study of the Arab Uprising(s) adequately. After almost a decade of the eruption of the so-called Arab Uprisings, the study claims that the volume of scholarly engaging of dominate Western International Relations (IR) theories with such unprecedented events is still substantially unpretentious. Likewise, and most importantly, the study also indicates that most of these theories, including the critical theory of IR (both Frankfurt and Habermasian versions), have discussed, engaged, analysed, and interpreted the Arab Spring (a term usually perceived to be orientalist, troubling, totally inappropriate and passive phenomenon) indicate a strong and durable egoistic Western perspective that emphasis on the preservation of the status quo and ensure the interests of Western and neoliberal elites, and the robustness of counter-revolutionary regimes. On the other hand, the writings and scholarships that reflexively engaged and represent the authentic Arab views, interests, and prospects were clearly demonstrating a strong and durable scarce, if not entirely missing.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)111-150
Number of pages40
JournalAthens Journal of Social Sciences
Volume8
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Apr 2021

Keywords

  • International Relations
  • International Relations theory
  • Critical theory
  • Postcolonial
  • Arab Uprising(s)
  • Middle East
  • Revolutions
  • Arab world
  • Decoloniality

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