Schmitt, the Constructivist? Possible Contributions to IR Theory

Abstract

This paper proposes re-reading famous German philosopher Carl Schmitt as a possible contributor to constructivist IR theory. It first examines Schmitt’s theories to determine if his writings enable such a reading. The paper argues that Schmitt, in fact, fulfills four criteria to be considered in the constructivist camp. The paper then turns to Wendt’s attempt to construct a systemic constructivist theory of IR. It contends that Wendt’s endeavor has certain shortcomings; and that these can be solved by Schmitt’s contribution. The distinction between “public and private enemy”; and the concept of Grossraum in Schmitt’s writings can be utilized as useful tools to solve certain theoretical problems regarding “self vs. other” distinction. In other words, Grossraum can act as a conceptual category to solve the tension between particularism of group self, and hypothetical universal state Wendt foresees. Practically that means the possibility of transcending nation-state identities without a necessity to accept that logical conclusion of such a reasoning is a universal world state.