Kathryn C. Lavelle, the Ellen and Dixon Long Professor in World Affairs, gave a presentation on her paper exploring the evolution of the concept of the “Arctic” and how it has changed over time, as well as the attendant political constructs attached to each of four overlapping discourses: colonialism, world war, Cold War, and environmental. As such, Lavelle considers groups included and excluded as these constructs change, and the relevance of international law and organization. Understanding how these categories are co-constitutive uncovers important implications for Great Power politics, indigenous peoples, and the environment in the Anthropocene.
The paper is part of a broader project on “Global Challenges in World Politics: Discourses, Actors, and Outcomes.” It is anticipated that a book will result.