Pufendorf's International Political and Legal Thought

The study of natural law in the early-modern period has gained renewed interest due to contemporary research on the genealogy of human rights and the foundations of international law. Samuel Pufendorf, a German-born philosopher, is one of the eminent thinkers of this tradition. This collection of essays edited by Peter Schröder explores the significance of Pufendorf's contributions to political and legal thought, particularly his international perspective. The book is interdisciplinary and the first to address the international aspect of Pufendorf's work, making it an essential resource for scholars and students of intellectual history, political thought, international legal history, the Enlightenment, and political economy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2024
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The study of natural law in the early-modern period has gained renewed attention in contemporary research on the genealogy of human rights and the foundations of international law. One of the prominent thinkers in this tradition is Samuel Pufendorf, a German-born philosopher who significantly shaped the natural jurisprudence of the period. This intriguing collection of essays, curated by historian of political thought Peter Schröder, aims to bridge a gap in Pufendorf scholarship by exploring the profound significance of his contributions to political and legal thought on a broad scale. While many books dedicated to Pufendorf's work confine themselves to a specific academic domain, Pufendorf's International Political and Legal Thought stands out as a truly interdisciplinary work, marking the first book to extensively address the international aspect of his intellectual endeavors.

Ambitious yet accessible, this collection is a valuable resource for scholars and students of intellectual history, political thought, international legal history, the Enlightenment, and political economy. Its focus on international law makes it a critical addition to the existing body of work on this renowned philosopher and jurist.

Pufendorf's International Political and Legal Thought delves into various themes, including the nature of law, the role of reason in legal reasoning, the concept of sovereignty, and the foundations of international law. Through his meticulous analysis and insightful arguments, Pufendorf sought to establish a comprehensive framework for understanding the laws of nature and society.

One of the key contributions of Pufendorf's work is his recognition of the interconnectedness of political and legal systems. He argued that the laws of nature and society are not separate entities but are interdependent and mutually reinforcing. This understanding paved the way for the development of the social contract theory, which holds that individuals enter into a voluntary agreement with a governing authority to establish a stable and just society.

Pufendorf's International Political and Legal Thought also explores the concept of sovereignty, which has been a central theme in international law and politics. He argued that sovereignty is not absolute but is limited by the laws of nature and society. Sovereign states are responsible for upholding the laws of nature and society and must ensure that their actions do not violate the rights of other states or individuals.

Furthermore, Pufendorf's work on international law sheds light on the principles of justice and the role of international institutions in promoting peace and stability. He emphasized the importance of treaties, agreements, and international organizations in resolving conflicts and promoting cooperation among nations.

In conclusion, Pufendorf's International Political and Legal Thought is a groundbreaking work that contributes significantly to our understanding of natural law, political thought, and international law in the early-modern period. This collection of essays, edited by Peter Schröder, provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of Pufendorf's intellectual legacy, making it an indispensable resource for scholars and students alike.

Weight: 610g
Dimension: 240 x 160 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192883353