Abstract

Few authors who have written about the French-Algerian relations. Their writings underlined mainly the economic aspect as a central interaction and interweaving of social and human relations. The role of common history and geography has been mentioned, as factor helping Algeria and France in maintaining of their relations. These approaches are based on ties that bind the two countries. However, these aspects are not the only ones which may be involved in the decision making-process in both states: we should take in consideration the interaction of emotional factors. Otherwise, how we can explain the persistence of tensions and disruptions that postponed the reconciliation process initiated since independence?
In fact, the French-Algerian model reinforces the idea that conflicts in foreign policy are not being only the result of the economic and material calculations, but a simple provocation could affect the decision making-process.
The realists, neo-liberals, functionalists and neo-functionalists defend the idea that the preferences are the same for all states (Universal Rationality), in other words, their assumptions are based on similarity of preferences that they outline in searching for material benefits for neoliberals and functionalists, power and security for neorealists. However, if these assumptions are completely true, how we can explain that states sometimes prefer to obtain an intangible benefit rather than material interest?
Indeed, although France is the leading supplier for Algeria, conflicts continue, preventing the two states to normalize their relations. In our study, we propose recognition as relevant factor. The interest of state is not always determined according to a utilitarian logic, materialistic (pragmatic), but decision makers may be seeking recognition.

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Item Type:	Conference
Divisions:
ePrint ID:	689
Date Deposited:	2017-03-07
Further Information:	Google Scholar
URI:	https://www.univ-soukahras.dz/en/publication/article/689

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