Alterity: The Reinvention of Peace in International Relations

Abstract

This paper aims to reflect upon peace and alterity in the field of International Relations (IR). This work builds upon the connection between peace-critical studies and postcolonial, de-colonial, and feminist perspectives. Following a literature review, reflections are made on the colonial, warmongering and patriarchal character of academic productions and political practices. Specifically, this study examines the realistic and liberal theories of IR and how they disqualify the Other as an active and diverse subject by treating nations with formal equality and as potential enemies. In this approach, the notion of alterity has much to contribute towards a more libertarian conception of peace.