Work

Measurement = generative: bridging IR’s epistemological divides with quantum mechanics’ measurement apparatus

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This article reflects on possibilities for bridging International Relations’ (IR) epistemological divides, through recourse to concepts from quantum mechanics. The article draws on quantum mechanics’ measurement problem to address polarisation between IR’s realist/positivist and interpretivist/critical ‘camps’. I argue this polarisation poses an obstacle to unified conversation between IR’s disciplinary traditions. I note epistemological divergences which underlie the polarisation, namely, different attitudes to the relationship between ‘measurement’ and ‘reality’, across realist/positivist and interpretivist/critical traditions. And I consider possibilities for overcoming this divergence, through attention to quantum mechanics’ foundational measurement problem. Engaging with writings from quantum mechanics’ founding parents, Niels Bohr and Werner Heisenberg, I position the measurement problem, and its central vehicle the ‘apparatus’, as a basis for more unified exchange in IR. This exchange would start from an understanding of measurement and reality, not as binary or hierarchical (as in IR’s present epistemological divide), but rather as phenomenally intertwined. That is, as inseparable features of a single phenomenon, taking shape from within the particular configurations of IR’s generative apparatus.

Source: European Journal of International Relations

DOI: 10.1177/13540661251388529

Author: Michael Livesey

Institution: University of Sheffield

Language: English

Topic: Political Science Research and Education

Subfield: Political Science and International Relations

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,900

Funder: Economic and Social Research Council