Ma Guolin

Abstract：The main reason for the rise of the English School lies in the construction of a unique discourse system, and Martin White plays the role of explorer and pioneer during this process. By distinguishing two different societies ( domestic society and international society), sorting out three traditions of international theory ( realism，rationalism, and revolutionism), and discussing the differences bet ween state-systems ( international and suzerain, primary and secondary, open and closed)，Martin White provides the basic conceptual framework and analytical path for the English School. White' s discourse construction characteristically makes full use of classification and comparative methods, paying attention to the theorization of history，emphasizing continuity rather than change，and possessing moral concern and religious meanings. However, his discourse construction also carries some limitations, such as unclear concept definition, inconsistent logical ideas，and not broad enough academic vision. Studying the content and form of White' s discourse construction offers an important reference source for constructing the discourse system of China's international relations research.