SUMMARY

The research article ‘Rethinking agency in International Relations: Performativity, performances and actor-networks’ is an excellent work in the International Relations field which provides with an alternative theoretical approach to the conventional wisdom of IR in the agent-structure discourse. The authors offer a well-constructed discussion built atop the contradictions that emerge from the agent-structure topic. The authors’ main idea transcends the two main analytical theories that either the agent depends on structure or the vice versa, a theoretical restraint which does not determine what it means to act into international politics and who can do so. The authors’ theoretical approach is well-grounded in three socio-theoretical traditions and it is completed from four insights for supporting once more their main statement, that is is necessary to transcend beyond the conventional theoretical frame for understanding that neither the agent defines the structure or the structure defines the agent, rather the latter is an emergency in a continuous social and cultural reproduction.

STRENGTH AND IMPACT OF THE ARTICLE

The paper offers a clear and concise introductory article which can serve as a cornerstone to further research in the agent-structure discourse while setting a new turning point for the International Relations field.

SPECIFIC COMMENTS ON THE WEAKNESSES

Major points

• The whole research is a qualitative based method with no data or use of quantitative data. Even though methods are not explicitly mentioned, it is necessary including this part either in the Introduction part or Conclusion part.

• Even though the results follow the logical coherence yet, they are not present in the Conclusion part. This is an important point, hence, it is necessary to include it in the final part as to highlight the findings which can serve to future research.

Minor points - None

Suggestion: Accept