The Role of Multinational Corporations in Shaping International Relations. Distinctive Paths of International Relations Studies in Asia

Abstract

This article explores the evolution of International Relations studies (IRS) in China, Japan, and India. Since the early 1980s, IRS has seen rapid growth in China, establishing itself as an independent discipline. In contrast, despite earlier developments, IRS in Japan and India remains integrated within other academic departments, although there is a growing interest in these countries. As Asian powers continue to rise and take on greater roles in shaping regional and global orders, interest in IRS is likely to increase across Asia. The development of IRS in China, Japan, and India has followed unique paths, shaped by the dominant narratives and intellectual approaches that influence how IR is researched and taught in each country. These distinct trajectories are influenced by both national and international contexts and the extent of state control over public spheres in these nations. Changes in national goals and international standing have shaped the key narratives that guide IR research, while the degree of state involvement and government support has impacted the intellectual tendencies and institutional growth of IRS. In Asia, IRS has traditionally been practical, focusing on understanding the global environment to inform national strategies. This approach has led to an emphasis on normative-ethical issues, as well as research grounded in historical, regional, and policy studies. Due to various factors, including intellectual tendencies and limitations, positivist knowledge production has not been prioritized. However, there is growing interest among Asian IR scholars in broad IR theory. Initially, Asian scholars' interest in Western IR theory stemmed from their exposure to Western, particularly American, scholarship, which has led the way in developing IR concepts and theories. What began as imitation has evolved into application, with increasing interest in creating indigenous ideas based on national histories and traditions. Although positivism may gain traction, it is not deeply rooted in Asian intellectual traditions, and it has also faced significant criticism in the West, where alternative theories are emerging. Asian IR scholarship is expected to continue prioritizing normative-ethical issues, and historical, regional, and policy studies will remain central, not merely as a basis for generating universal laws. Additionally, there is a growing trend in Asian IR scholarship toward reviving and adapting indigenous ideas to contemporary contexts. These developments are likely to diversify and enrich existing IR concepts, theories, methods, and perspectives, potentially introducing new ones. The growth of IRS in Asia will contribute to making the IR discipline more truly international.