This book develops the argument that an expanded understanding of critical theory can act as a first order theorizing about the dynamics and structure of the international system. E. Fuat Keyman attempts to put critical social theory into service as theoretical pluralism by discussing and reflecting upon critical discourses of international relations and focusing on both the similarities and differences among them. He then puts them into constructive criticism, and extrapolates important insights from each as necessary compents of a more adequate theorization of international relations.

Within this structure Keyman is able to discuss three of the most important concepts in international relations theory: production, state and cultural identity, and to critically analyze the theories of globalization, state and identity/difference which both inform and constitute the field of critical theory of international relations.