Description
How do British ontological insecurities and anxieties shape and influence the dynamics of international politics at micro, meso, and macro levels? To address this complex query, this panel convenes an assortment of theoretical perspectives concerning ontological (in)security and anxiety. Drawing from a rich tapestry of sociological and psychoanalytic thought, the panel integrates the insights of prominent scholars such as Anthony Giddens, Jacques Lacan, and Melanie Klein. By employing these diverse theoretical lenses, the panel endeavours to examine an array of case studies centred around the United Kingdom. These case studies range from an exploration of state bordering practices to the state’s weaponisation of domestic violence to an analysis of the vicarious identification with both individuals and objects, as well as an examination of the intricacies of international cooperation. This comprehensive panel serves as a testament to the pervasive nature of anxiety within the contemporary British political landscape, shedding light on the multifaceted implications that manifest across various actors and levels of analysis. By fostering an inclusive dialogue and collaborative engagement with diverse theoretical perspectives, this panel seeks to deepen our understanding of the intricate interplay between British ontological (in)security and the intricate dynamics of international politics.
