IR theory in the Anthropocene: time for a reality check?

The broad understanding of International Relations (IR's) purpose, and in light of the dangers posed by the Anthropocene, this chapter addresses some issues concerning the status of science, the phenomenon of anti-science, and the implications of theories of knowledge. No one has described more clearly than Marx and Engels the development of industrial society in the century preceding their own time. The issue of population growth mentioned here is also a key factor in the emergence of the Anthropocene. This chapter describes the Critical studies in the United States have identified a range of anti-science and/or pseudoscientific views over a variety of issues from climate change denialism to "intelligent design" and which have typically been endorsed by leading figures on the Republican right. IR – and its theorization – in the contemporary world is to contribute to making it a better place, and then it is indeed time for a reality check.