We are happy to announce the creation of a new ISA section devoted to IR Theory (broadly understood). The section was approved by the ISA Governing Council during the Annual Conference in Montreal.
The purpose of the
Theory Section is to offer students of international politics a forum to develop and debate theory. Specifically, the section has three main aims: (i) Promoting the importance of theory in IR scholarship and encouraging scholars to interrogate the meaning and purpose of theory, how theories are created, how they relate to history and affect policymaking; (ii) fostering new research networks and opportunities for collaboration and exchange regardless of regional/topical expertise and across the theoretical spectrum; and (iii) enhancing the dialogue between IR and Political Theory and the status of IR scholars as political theorists. The Theory Section will pursue these aims through a mailing list, newsletters, workshops and conference panels in collaboration with likeminded organizations and ISA sections, amongst other things.
Looking forward to next year's ISA conference in San Diego, we would like to take this opportunity to ask for your support in developing this new section. Building up a healthy membership base is the first and most important phase in ensuring our ability to sponsor an increasing number of panels over the coming years. So if you would like to join, please take a minute and visit the ISA website to sign up as a member of the Theory Section (via MyISA).