Geopolitics at the Border of Geography and International Relations: Between Intersubjective and Objective Space

Abstract

The main goal of the article is to highlight the marked difference
between two understandings of geopolitics and space in general – the
understanding that is present in the field of geography and the
understanding that is present in the field of International Relations.
Whereas in International Relations (namely in the case of neorealists)
space is conceptualized as a material, objective entity, in the field of
geography there has been a shift toward a conceptualization of space
as an inter-subjective entity. It follows that in the case of neorealists there is
some (usually unintentional) tendency to revive (neo)classical geopolitics, or
at least some of its basic assumptions. On the other hand, contemporary
geographers have adopted a boldly critical approach toward
(neo)classical geopolitics. Geographers consider (neo)classical geopolitics
as potentially dangerous because of its justification of the conflictual
discourses prevailing in international politics. The question remains
whether the geographical neglect of objective space does not
undermine the ability of critical geopolitics to effectively intervene in
practical political issues.