COMMENT | A metaphor is a figure of speech. It can be a word or a phrase. In everyday speech, we are familiar with “life is a rollercoaster”, “he cried buckets”, “bucket list”, “she is a night owl”, and so on.

Metaphors are important because they help us communicate ideas easily. In academia, metaphors are extremely useful, especially when combining theory with reality. In our articles, books, and lectures, they enhance complicated concepts with imagery.

For example, in physics, the “big bang” metaphor is used to theorise about the origins of the universe. The imagery helps us to understand density, pressure, heat, force, and cooling in the creation of the planets.

In international relations common metaphors used are “systems”, “theatre”, “platform”, and “structures”. Structures in international relations is used metaphorically as “that which defines world affairs”. Otherwise, it typically implies physical qualities.

In academia, metaphors help us theorise about the bigger picture. It helps us make sense of the world we live in. However, in Malaysia, and among academics, many have developed a dismissive attitude towards theory...