MF CASR Lunch with Hege Cathrine Finholt

"Know thyself: A philosophical critique of theories of International Relations, inspired by Thomas Hobbes."

 

Theories of International relations, liberalism and realism, both approach international relations within the framework of the sovereign state. The realist, such as Morgenthau and Mearsheimer, argue that morality have no role to play in international relations, and they refer to Thomas Hobbes’ view of the state of nature as a condition characterised by a war of all against all. I suggest that such a reading of Hobbes is misguided as there are ontological differences between the state of nature among individuals and the state of nature among states. Taking this seriously poses a deep rooted challenge to the realist theory of international relations.

 

Please join us in person at the MF Library, or watch on Zoom: https://mf-no.zoom.us/j/64105595003?pwd=S0JpdTIyT1dBcjRwTjg2YzVxdmVRQT09

Zoom Meeting ID: 641 0559 5003

Passcode: MFCASR