Lechner and Frost provide a new philosophical analysis of social practices in order to illuminate major issues in international relations. Following in the footsteps of Oakeshott, Wittgenstein and Hegel, this book forms an important contribution to international relations, philosophy and the social sciences.
Anarchy, Authority and the Fate of Political Philosophy
Focusing on the concepts of anarchy and authority, the book re-examines Thomas Hobbes's political philosophy and proposes a Hobbesian normative theory of international relations. It argues that Hobbes's notion of the state as a supreme authority arises from a state of nature, justifying authority without moral obligation. The text draws parallels between Hobbesian authority and Kant's confederation of free states, highlighting how current global economic processes and the rise of private authority threaten this anarchical freedom.
General Editor's Preface.- Acknowledgements.- The Text and Early Performances.- Commentary.- The Play's Sources and Cultural Context.- Critical Assessments.- Key Productions and Performances.- The Play on Screen.- Further Reading.- Index.