Political Science in Georgia: Epistemology and Determinants

Abstract

This paper examines the epistemological approaches employed by Georgian researchers in the field of Political Science over the past five years. It is grounded in an initial, generalized study of a topic that has been largely overlooked by both local and international scholars. Through a review of the literature and an analysis of the research conducted by leading local scientists, the paper posits that there are no well-established or deeply rooted political schools of thought in Georgia, as traditionally understood, due to the country’s Soviet past. As a result, universities and the entire field of Political Science are products of the democracy proliferation reforms.

These reforms were implemented with strong support from Western strategic allies, particularly the United States and the European Union. Currently, the field is heavily influenced by dominant Western theories of Political Science and International Relations, such as liberalism, neoliberalism, and liberal institutionalism. Moreover, the discipline is inherently oriented toward Civic Education, with a primary focus on democracy promotion rather than critical studies. Georgian scholars tend to research topics and apply theories that align with mainstream Western narratives. This tendency is significantly influenced by financial and logistical dependence on Western grants and scholarships.