Methods of Normative Political Theory

The study of methods in political theory has become only increasingly prominent in recent years. This ‘methodological moment’ (Floyd 2022) is well represented not only in scholarship but also in debates and discussions between theorists at prominent venues. Since 2016, the ECPR General Conference has been an important venue for contributing to this moment, culminating in the recognition of the Methods of Normative Political Theory Standing Group in 2022. Through subsequent events, such as the Joint Sessions Workshops in 2022 and 2023, the Winter School in 2022, and the General Conference in 2023 and 2024, methods of normative political theory continue to be a central part of the ECPR program. Recent debates in political theory methods have encouraged theorists to expand their horizons when considering the range of methods available to them. This includes the well-established set of tools in our methodological toolbox, such as conceptual analysis, comparative political theory, and empirically informed political theory, but also a wider set of more experimental approaches. Experimentation of this kind contributes to a greater understanding of political phenomena but also the diversity and inclusivity of methodological scholarship. The theme of this Section proposal is to continue to push the frontiers of methodological innovation. In previous years this Section has focused on general methodological debates, as well as exploratory and experimental methods. This year we encourage proposals that approach political theory methods in novel ways, such as relying on themes and logic from other disciplines or re-examining the premises of well-established approaches. Of particular emphasis is how methodological innovation can not only allow us to better understand long-standing questions of politics, but where innovation might be required to address new and emerging challenges. Methodological innovation in political theory is crucial not only for questioning longstanding practices but also for addressing the unique, complex challenges facing contemporary societies. Traditional methods in normative political theory—while powerful tools for analyzing foundational questions—may be limited in their capacity to fully capture or address the evolving dynamics of the present political landscape. In this sense, innovation is not simply about refreshing academic discourse; it is about developing methodologies that can more effectively engage with urgent global issues and shifting social realities. Many of today’s pressing concerns—such as climate change, artificial intelligence, global migration, and the erosion of democratic norms—are increasingly interwoven, transcending national boundaries and disciplinary categories. These issues defy traditional frameworks in political theory, which often rely on stable conceptions of the state, justice, and the individual. It might well be the case that such innovations provide a clearer lens for approaching pressing issues of politics such as immigration, multiculturalism, climate change, free speech, and global distributive justice. Finally, methodological innovation holds the potential to make political theory more inclusive and reflective of diverse perspectives. Many of the methods traditionally employed in normative theory have been shaped by Eurocentric or Western-centric viewpoints, which may not fully resonate with or capture the complexities of diverse global experiences. As scholars explore methodological approaches from feminist, postcolonial, and decolonial frameworks, they not only broaden the scope of political theory but also address normative political questions in a way that is more representative of different cultural and political contexts. This can help political theory to address contemporary issues like migration or global distributive justice with greater sensitivity to the diversity of voices and experiences that these issues affect. In sum, methodological innovation is vital for adapting normative political theory to a world where traditional assumptions may no longer hold, and where new perspectives and frameworks are necessary to address emerging ethical and political questions. By pushing the boundaries of traditional approaches, political theorists can develop methodological tools and insights that are better suited to our complex, interconnected world. Proposed Panels: 1. New Methods, Old Problems This panel invites scholars to address how innovative methodologies might offer novel insights into longstanding political theory debates. Papers could explore how recent methodological developments, such as public political philosophy (Floyd) or participatory approaches, can help offer fresh interpretations of enduring normative questions. Potential Chair: Jonathan Floyd 2. Old Methods, New Problems This panel invites scholars to address the limits of certain methodologies in light of contemporary challenges and consider possibilities for methodological innovation that might better address these challenges. Papers could examine the limitations of traditional approaches when applied to issues like global migration or climate change and propose ways to adapt or revise these methods. Potential Chair: Simon Stevens 3. Normative Theory and Empirical Evidence This panel examines how normative theory might innovate by integrating more closely with empirical research, bridging abstract ethical discussions with practical realities. This panel welcomes papers that illustrate the potential and limitations of blending empirical data with normative analysis Potential Chair: Keith Dowding 4. Decolonizing Methods in Normative Political Theory This panel would address how methodological innovation can incorporate decolonial, indigenous, and non-Western approaches to create a more inclusive political theory. Papers might discuss how adopting these approaches can disrupt conventional normative frameworks, offering perspectives that reflect diverse historical, cultural, and ethical contexts. Potential Chair: Esma Baycan-Herzog 5. Methodologies for Interconnected Global Issues As complex, transnational challenges like climate change defy simple analysis; this panel will explore methodologies that account for interconnected systems. Climate change, for example, is not only an environmental problem, as it captures concerns such as public policy, law, economic policy, and science and technology. We encourage submissions that examine how we can grapple with the extent of this interconnectedness. Potential Chair: Eva Erman 6. Digital Methods and Political Theory This panel would consider how digital technology is transforming societal norms and structures, as well as political practice and discourse. Scholars are invited to discuss the possibilities as well as challenges that digital methods pose for normative political theory, including topics like algorithmic bias, data privacy, and digital citizenship. Potential Chair: Nahshon Perez