Zur (Ir-)Relevanz der "Postmoderne" fur die Integrationsforschung: Eine Replik auf Thomas Diez' Beitrag "Postmoderne und europaische Integration"

In: Zeitschrift für internationale Beziehungen: ZIB, Band 4, Heft 1, S. 125-137

Abstract

There have been very few attempts to apply "postmodern" approaches in research on European integration. The few existing works strive to deconstruct hegemonic, state-centric conceptions of European integration in order to make room for alternative, "postmodern" reconstructions, which have been marginalized in the discourse so far. But the claim that there is a plurality of different ideas about European integration & the advocacy of alternative, non-state-centric conceptions are neither new nor inherently postmodern. Nor is it sufficient to identify various conceptions in the discourse & then to search for emerging "postmodern horizons." The relevance of ideas about European integration lies in their impact on European politics & policies. This effect must not only be assumed but also has to be empirically demonstrated. From an epistemological understanding of "postmodernism," however, this is not feasible. Therefore, the added value of "postmodern" approaches appears to be more than questionable. Adapted from the source document.