Argues that the interpretative methodology used by the Cambridge School (CS) & Quentin Skinner could improve the study of the history of political thought in International Relations (IR). To fully understand a text, it is necessary to focus on the linguistic context in which it was produced & to gain an understanding of its locutionary & illocutionary meanings. Though the CS historians are praised for their methodology for the context of writing, they are criticized for placing too little emphasis on intellectual traditions & the context of reception. Using the speech-act theory, Skinner demonstrates the role of language in molding & determining action. It is argued that Skinner's historical-interpretative methodology should be incorporated in a general project of critique. I. Sharp