Language and diplomacy: a critical analysis of the role of language in diplomacy

Abstract

The interest into the 'mysteries and myths' of diplomacy are the roots on which this study has developed. The interests into this area of study were necessitated by the different interpretations of the concept that later developed as a search for theory. Though not a new area, the study of diplomacy has revealed a network of inter-relationships between the disciplines of international relations. The study attempts to examine the meaning of the concept of diplomacy from an historical perspective. It traces the similarities defined by the related disciplines of international relations. The study attempts to make both a descriptive and theoretical analysis of what diplomacy is about. It is envisaged that at the end of this study a concise definition to diplomacy will be possible which will provide also a basis for the establishment of a theory to diplomacy, one that can be separated from diplomatic practice but within the context of other disciplines within international relations.