Non-state Actors: Theoretical Limitations and Problematic Discourses

Abstract

This chapter highlights a dual problem. More is needed than is currently on offer in the discursive market on non-state actors in SEA. Yet the ES is not wholly equipped to respond. These problems will be dealt with in reverse order. The first section looks at ES thinking on non-state actors, which is still in a state of evolution. The remaining sections look at three sets of discursive problems in this area, examining a dominant but not entirely satisfactory civil society discourse, a highly informative but fragmented corpus of literature on other non-state actors, and a widespread theoretical tendency to ignore the agential role of the individual. Subsequent chapters will explore whether the issues these discourses raise, and the gaps they expose, can inform theoretical development within the ES.¹