Liberal IR Theorizing During the Early Twentieth Century: 1900–1939


Öztiğ L. I.

in: Trends in European IR Theory, Knud Erik Jorgensen, Editor, Palgrave MacMillan, İstanbul, pp.31-43, 2021

  • Publication Type: Book Chapter / Chapter Research Book
  • Publication Date: 2021
  • Publisher: Palgrave MacMillan
  • City: İstanbul
  • Page Numbers: pp.31-43
  • Editors: Knud Erik Jorgensen, Editor
  • Yıldız Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The catastrophic consequences of World War I became a catalyst for liberal thinkers to theorize international peace. The scholarly interest into the conditions underlying peace tapped into the rising anti-war sentiments among European societies. The establishment of the League of Nations, international agreements and the evolution of international legal norms enhanced optimism regarding peaceful change. During this period, liberal scholars denounced nationalism as a destructive ideology and saw the idea of sovereignty as a hindrance against peaceful interstate relations and human welfare in general. This chapter sheds light on scholars (who came from different disciplines, representing both Anglo-Saxon and continental traditions) who contributed to liberal internationalist thinking during the interwar period.