Hans Kelsen's Political Realism

Kelsen's life and political thinking are explored in Robert Schuett's book, challenging Schmittians and traditional foreign policy realism views.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

In this captivating account of Kelsen's life and political thought, Robert Schuett presents him as a political realist, engaging in a lively dialogue with contemporary Schmittians and traditional perspectives on foreign policy realism. Schuett skillfully weaves together Kelsen's ideas on human nature, the state, and war, creating a rich tapestry of thought that challenges and expands our understanding of these critical subjects.

Kelsen's political realism is rooted in his belief in the inherent limitations of human nature and the complexities of social order. He rejects the idealistic notion that humans can be fully controlled or manipulated by governments, instead emphasizing the importance of legal frameworks and institutions as means of maintaining stability and promoting justice.

Kelsen's views on the state are equally insightful. He argues that the state is not a mere instrument of power but a complex entity that is shaped by historical, cultural, and social factors. The state's primary function, according to Kelsen, is to protect the individual rights of its citizens, ensuring that they are free from harm and able to pursue their own goals and aspirations.

However, Kelsen's political realism also takes into account the realities of war and conflict. He recognizes that war is often a result of complex political and economic factors, and that it can have devastating consequences for both the winners and losers. Kelsen's approach to war is rooted in the principles of proportionality and discrimination, which emphasize the need to limit the use of force and to target only those individuals and groups responsible for the conflict.

Schuett's account of Kelsen's life and political thinking is filled with vivid anecdotes and examples that bring his ideas to life. He explores Kelsen's early life and education, his experiences as a lawyer and judge, and his contributions to the development of international law and legal theory. Schuett also discusses Kelsen's influence on contemporary political thinkers, such as Ronald Dworkin and Joseph Raz, and how his ideas continue to shape our understanding of the role of the state and the limits of political power.

In conclusion, Robert Schuett's account of Kelsen's life and political thinking is a valuable contribution to the study of political philosophy and international relations. By presenting Kelsen as a political realist and engaging in a productive dialogue with contemporary perspectives, Schuett offers a fresh and insightful perspective on these critical subjects. Kelsen's ideas on human nature, the state, and war continue to resonate with scholars and policymakers alike, and his legacy as a political thinker is secure.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 161 x 239 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474481687