Knowledge and knowledge network theory

This chapter first engages in a detailed conceptual and theoretical analysis of knowledge from the perspective of International Relations (IR) and its sub-field Global Political Economy (GPE) and Critical Political Ecology (CPE). It presents a hybrid theory - Knowledge Network Theory. The Knowledge Network Theory incorporates knowledge analysis and the conceptual and theoretical analysis of political–economic actors from the perspective of IR and GPE. The liberal approach of the GPE and IR uses knowledge/ideas as an independent variable, which can influence actors&s; behaviour. The role of knowledge/ideas and norms is central to the analysis provided by the constructivist tradition in IR/GPE. For the constructivists, the relationship between knowledge/ideas and actors is contextual, and their influence on each other is reciprocal. The history of the knowledge of climate refugees and its replacement with that of climate change-induced displaced people illustrates the three core components of critical constructivism – power, interests, and time-space – as well as CPE&s;s power-based analysis of knowledge.

Knowledge management · Computer Science · Semantic Web and Ontologies