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Beware of gurus: structure and action In International relations

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 October 2009

Martin Hollis  and
Steve Smith
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Extract

The agent-structure problem is not settled by deciding what proportions to put in the blender. Agents and structures do not blend easily in any proportions, and solutions to the problem tend to be unstable. Alexander Wendt's thoughtful review article makes this clear, identifies some of the difficulties, and boldly sketches a possible resolution of them. Since his relections are addressed in part to our recent book Explaining and Understanding International Relations, we welcome the chance to pursue them further. Greatly encouraged by his many friendly comments, we shall concentrate on those suggestive or critical points which have prompted us to think afresh.

Type
Discussion
Information
Review of International Studies , Volume 17 , Issue 4 , October 1991 , pp. 393 - 410
Copyright
Copyright © British International Studies Association 1991

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References

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6 Wendt, ‘The Agent-Structure Problem’, p. 351.

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