Norms Contestation: Insights from Morphogenesis Theory

Abstract

Critical constructivists have introduced the concept of “contestation” and have argued that norms not only have a constitutive dimension, but also a structural dimension. Norms entail a ‘dual quality’ in which they are constructed with discourses, but at the same time structure the discourses that hold their meanings (Wiener 2008). The critical constructivist approach has broadened the current understanding of norms but it is silent about the relationship between flexibility and stability. It is important to know how far the meanings can be contested and how fairly stable international norms retain influence in the face of this contestation. This paper analyses how far Morphogenesis theory by Margaret Archer can help to solve this problem. Morphogenesis theory is capable of comprehending the flexibility and stability of norms leading to elaboration or maintenance of a system. In order to explore the empirical utility of morphogenesis theory in norms contestation, the paper assesses the evolution of the India-US nuclear deal, which was concluded in defiance of nuclear nonproliferation norms. This study argues that constructivist theory based on the analysis of such norm competition and adaptation may be able to overcome the problem of focusing on stability to the point of denying mechanisms for social change.