Geopolitics at the Border of Geography and International Relations: Between Intersubjective and Objective Space Cover Image

Geopolitika na pomezí geografie a mezinárodních vztahů: Mezi prostorem intersubjektivním a objektivním
Geopolitics at the Border of Geography and International Relations: Between Intersubjective and Objective Space

Author(s): Jan Kofroň
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences
Published by: Ústav mezinárodních vztahů
Keywords: geopolitics; International Relations; geography; realism; power; critical geopolitics; space

Summary/Abstract: The main goal of the article is to highlight the marked difference between two understandings of geopolitics and space in general – the understanding that is present in the field of geography and the understanding that is present in the field of International Relations. Whereas in International Relations (namely in the case of neorealists) space is conceptualized as a material, objective entity, in the field of geography there has been a shift toward a conceptualization of space as an inter-subjective entity. It follows that in the case of neorealists there is some (usually unintentional) tendency to revive (neo)classical geopolitics, or at least some of its basic assumptions. On the other hand, contemporary geographers have adopted a boldly critical approach toward (neo)classical geopolitics. Geographers consider (neo)classical geopolitics as potentially dangerous because of its justification of the conflictual discourses prevailing in international politics. The question remains whether the geographical neglect of objective space does not undermine the ability of critical geopolitics to effectively intervene in practical political issues.

  • Issue Year: 47/2012
  • Issue No: 2
  • Page Range: 57-78
  • Page Count: 22
  • Language: Czech