Abstract In this research note, I critically reflect on the metaphor of turns in international studies. The language of turns, I am concerned, can encourage scholarly tendencies of turning to and turning away from particular phenomena of global politics, conflict, and peace, which can reinforce dichotomous thinking. What I call for instead is an approach to theorizing and analysis that does not turn to and away, but that rather allows for simultaneities and co-existences of different worlds, realities, and perspectives. I illuminate those perspectives and thoughts through an engagement with different turns in IR and conflict studies, and in particular by sharing subjective hesitations to declare the love/care turn in international studies.
Philipp Schulz (Tue,) studied this question.