New and Old Methodological Challenges in Normative Political Theory

Room – Roscoe 3.3

Leonardo Menezes (University of Minho)

Recently, there has been a notable surge in scholarly attention directed towards the methodological difficulties inherent in political theory, especially regarding its practical relevance: What is the relationship between political theory and political practice? How can one decide what political practices are morally right? What is the proper role or feasibility considerations in normative political theory? And of democracy? Political theorists now face growing demands to articulate and critically examine the methodologies and theoretical perspectives they employ in their research, leading some to suggest innovative techniques and strategies for exploring political theory. This ‘methodological moment’ (Floyd, 2022) is prominently reflected in both academic literature and the ongoing dialogues among theorists at significant forums.

Debates surrounding the role of ideal and non-ideal-theory (Simmons, 2010; Valentini, 2012; Sen, 2006; Stemplowska, 2008; Swift, 2008), realism and moralism (Rossi & Sleat, 2014; Geuss, 2005; Erman & Möller, 2018; Leader Maynard & Worship, 2018), fact-sensitivity and fact-insensitivity (Miller, 2016; Cohen, 2003; Pogge, 2008; Lippert-Rasmussen, 2017), as well as the relevance of feasibility constraints (Gilabert, 2019; Lawford-Smith, 2013), have played a crucial role in carving out space for original political theory projects. Yet, other methods of inquiry, analysis, and argument that political theorists apply in their research have only received fleeting attention.

The aim of this workshop is to push the frontiers of methodological innovation. The development of new methodological approaches in political theory is significant for both reevaluating long-held practices and for addressing the unique and complex challenges that contemporary societies must navigate. In this context, innovation transcends merely revitalising scholarly discussions; it focuses on creating approaches that can better address pressing global challenges and evolving social dynamics. Such developments might provide a more refined perspective for engaging with essential political topics, such as immigration, the challenges of multiculturalism, climate change, the exercise of free speech, and the pursuit of global distributive justice. Also, innovative methodologies can enhance the inclusivity of political theory, allowing for a broader representation of varied viewpoints. Numerous approaches historically adopted in normative theory have been shaped by Western or Eurocentric lenses, which may not fully capture the complexities found in global experiences. Finally, numerous political theorists engage in their work not solely for the sake of ‘pure’ theory, but also with the intention of persuading both the citizens and policy-makers to bring about changes in society.

In this workshop, we will explore the implications of these various methodological challenges and approaches to political theory. We welcome papers that could explore, among other topics,

• The shortcomings of mainstream methodologies in addressing contemporary challenges such as global migration and climate change, while also suggesting modifications or enhancements to these methods 
• The ways in which methodological advancements can incorporate decolonial, indigenous, and non-Western perspectives to enhance inclusivity within political theory, providing insights that are informed by a range of historical and ethical dimensions 
• The interplay between ethics and public policy, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of combining empirical data and policy-makers dilemmas with normative considerations  
• The purpose of developing innovative methodological approaches in political theory such as ethnography, phenomenology and discursive perspectives