Abstract

MEDINA GARCIA, Eusebio. Aportaciones para una epistemología de los estudios sobre fronteras internacionales. Estud. front [online]. 2006, vol.7, n.13, pp.9-27. ISSN 2395-9134.

In this paper, we propose an interpretative model to be used from an interdisciplinary perspective when undertaking international border studies. Inspired by the theory of social dynamic fields (Sztompka, 1995), this model is articulated in four basic dimensions: ideational, normative, materialist and agentive. The model is both dynamic and interactive; it presupposes the existence of multiple and complex relationships among the four field dimensions, as well as a certain degree of autonomy in each one. The model is also governed by two fundamental vectors: space and time. The spatial dimension refers to the physical and material base, as well as the territorial, and to other aspects such as the psychological apprehension of space and of imaginary space. It its temporal, or historical, dimension, we consider the model to be in constant evolution, on an oneness basis, to the extent that it can be studied as a social fact. We stress the need to construct an eclectic methodology in order to reach a balanced conjunction among various aspects: the tangible and intangible, quantitative and qualitative, interpretive and comprehensive singular and shared, functional and rational-critical.

Keywords : international frontiers; epistemology; social simulation model; applied social science.

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