The Rights of War and Peace is the first fully historical account of the formative period of modern theories of international law. It sets the scene with an extensive history of the theory of international relations from antiquity down to the seventeenth century. Professor Tuck then examines the arguments over the moral basis for war and international aggression, and links the debates to the writings of the great political theorists such as Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, and Kant. This is not only an account of international law: as Professor Tuck shows, ideas about inter-state relations were central to the formation of modern liberal political theory, for the best example the kind of agent which liberalism presupposes was provided by the modern state. As a result the book illuminates the presuppositions behind much current political theory, and puts into a new perspective the connection between liberalism and imperialism.
Reviews
At the conclusion of The Rights of War and Peace, one is left with the feeling that we may well be condemned to relive the philosophical debates of the past. The theorists he discusses have much to teach us not only about the nature of politics in the international system, but also, perhaps, about the reasonable limits of international law. Richard Tuck's book offers a superb vehicle for examining such issues. * David J.Bederman, The American Journal of International Law, Vol 95 *
a slim but provocative book ... Tuck's book not only provides a close reading of the central works of political philosophy that bear on international relations, but also reflects his rich understanding of the political developments that motivated and influenced the writings he canvasses ... The Rights of War and Peace should be of substantial interest to the international law community. * David J.Bederman, The American Journal of International Law, Vol.95 *
Review from previous edition recommended for anyone interested in the history of international law. * S. R. Silverburg, Choice *
fascinating new book ... Tuck's thesis, argued with great historical erudition and philosophical subtlety, is persuasive ... a rich and stimulating book. * Bhikhu Parekh, Times Literary Supplement *



Book Information
ISBN 9780199248148
Author Richard Tuck
Format Paperback
Page Count 254
Imprint Oxford University Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 311g
Dimensions(mm) 218mm * 139mm * 15mm