Analyzing Multi-Definitional Problems of Concepts in International Relations: Re-Conceptualizing Change

Abstract

Endless debates within, between and among the theories have led to the emergence of numerous concepts, each with multiple meanings and definition(s) generating confusion and vagueness. The reason behind this is the intellectual plurality and differentiated perspectives. Accordingly, the aim of this article is to understand and explain the reasons behind the multiple definitions and meanings of the concepts within international relations and potentially in other areas of social studies. To achieve that end, the authors first tried to understand and explain “why” and “how,” the occurrence of change happens, with a belief that a clearer picture can be revealed. There were great debates that, most of the time cycles around the questions of “what has changed” and “how can we identify change,” giving us some idea about change but not really explaining the reasons behind the occurrence of the change. To understand change and the reasons behind the multiple meanings of concepts, we need a specific kind of understanding related to change. The author’s approach to the change and their attempt to establish a base for the reconceptualization of change will be the main contribution of the present study.