A critical science of global relations

This article extends the current debate over "realism" and proposes an alternative to the rising neorealist paradigm. It argues for a problem‐solving orientation, identifying human needs, encouraging analysis across traditional "levels," and an expanded view of rationality. Scholars should that people suffering from deprivation have the capacity to understand their deprivation and respond to it. Studies of global relations can play a role in facilitating that self‐understanding. The article is part of ongoing cooprative research by both authors but Professor Coate's contribution to this particular piece was the greater. We are grateful to John Burton and Chadwick Alger for comments on an earlier draft.