Sovereignty and the Denial of International Equality: Writing Civilisational Difference in Early Modern International Relations

This book explores whether sovereignty can guarantee international equality by examining the discourses of sovereignty and their reliance on the notions of civilization and savagery in two historical colonial encounters: the French explorations of Canada in the 16th century and the Wars of Religion in France. It questions the "myth of sovereignty as equality" and reflects on the persistence of this association despite empirical evidence of international hierarchies and inequalities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the intricate relationship between sovereignty and international equality, exploring the discourses of sovereignty and their reliance on the notions of civilisation and savagery in two historical colonial encounters: the French explorations of Canada in the 16th century and the domestic troubles linked to the Wars of Religion. Through a comprehensive analysis, author Mathieu unveils the dynamic interplay between domestic and external claims to sovereignty, offering a novel perspective on the theory and practice of the concept. Drawing upon extensive archival research, the book provides a rich intellectual portrayal of sovereignty in early modern France, focusing on the discourses deployed by French political theorists. By employing the concept of performativity, Mathieu deconstructs these discourses of statehood, revealing how they interrelate and equally rely on appeals to civilisation and savagery. This insightful exploration challenges the prevailing notion of sovereignty as equality and raises important questions about the persistence of this association despite overwhelming empirical evidence of its establishment of international hierarchies and inequalities. As a significant contribution to the ongoing IR debates on sovereignty, this book will be of immense value to researchers engaged in exploring issues of sovereignty and equality within the field.

Weight: 344g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032020440