Epistemological Freedom and the Globalization of IR: Challenges and Opportunities for Core-Periphery Dialogue

This article examines core-periphery dynamics within global international relations (IR), focusing on how intellectual history informs the ongoing dialogue between the core, primarily the United Kingdom and the United States, and the 'periphery', representing the rest of the world. The study critically engages with Turton's conceptualisations of cores and explores how the concept of the periphery can be rethought to promote a more inclusive global IR framework. The article uses qualitative methods, including content analysis of key reference texts and historical sources, to examine the evolution of the core-periphery divide. The concept of epistemological freedom is discussed, prompting the question of whether a convergence of epistemologies or the pursuit of independent epistemic freedom is a more attainable objective for the expansion and diversification of the intellectual foundation of global IR. The importance of dialogue in reshaping the discipline is emphasized, and the potential of civilizational discourse to advance Global IR is considered. However, the article critically assesses whether such a discourse may inadvertently promote exceptionalism and essentialism. Ultimately, the article argues for a more balanced and pluralistic approach to global knowledge production that integrates perspectives from historically marginalized regions to challenge the traditional centre/periphery binary and promote intellectual diversity in the discipline. Drawing on the insights of scholars such as Shahi, Moshirzadeh and Kuru as well, the article explores the complexities of establishing genuine dialogue and inclusivity within IR, considering alternative approaches such as Shahi's 'dialogic approach' and Kuru's emphasis on global intellectual history.