81. On Vulnerability in the South: Sovereignty in the Post-Colonial Space
- Author:
- Ioana Puscas
- Publication Date:
- 12-2009
- Content Type:
- Journal Article
- Journal:
- Alternatives: Turkish Journal of International Relations
- Institution:
- Center for International Conflict Resolution at Yalova University
- Abstract:
- This article engages critically with the question of sovereignty, with a focus on the post-colonial state. Building on Stephen Krasner's arguments, it will point to the risks of employing European-centered/ inspired concepts for understanding processes in former colonies. In doing so, the paper will reveal the complexity pervading the discourse and history of sovereignty, beyond the purely legalistic definitions, questioning whether this institution was only a new democratic appearance for a system that remained inherently coercive. In relation to this, some epistemological and methodological issues will be explored concerning the discipline of International Relations as such.