What distinguishes alternative approaches in International Relations from mainstream theories?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is c) They incorporate marginal voices, norms, and identity into global analysis.
In International Relations (IR), the "mainstream" usually refers to Realism and Liberalism. Alternative approaches (often called Critical Theories) emerged to challenge the narrow focus of these traditional perspectives.

Information Booster :

Key Features of Alternative Approaches
Alternative theories argue that the world is not just a collection of "billiard ball" states hitting each other, but a complex social web.

Constructivism (Norms & Identity): This theory argues that international politics is "socially constructed." For example, the US doesn't fear the UK’s nuclear weapons but fears North Korea’s, not because of the number of missiles, but because of the identity and relationship shared between the countries.

Feminism (Gendered Perspective): Alternative approaches like Feminism point out that mainstream IR is "masculine," focusing on war and states while ignoring how global politics affects women and how gender roles shape diplomatic behavior.

Post-colonialism (Marginal Voices): These theories argue that mainstream IR is Eurocentric—it was written by and for Western powers. They bring in the voices of the Global South (the "marginalized") to show how the history of colonialism still dictates current global hierarchies.

Marxism (Class & Economy): While mainstream theories focus on political boundaries, Marxists focus on global economic inequality and how the wealthy "core" nations exploit the "periphery" (developing nations).