Abstract

Can democracy and human rights really be imposed 'by fire and sword'?

This is a collection of essays debating empire and international law, concerning the relationship between American imperialism, the abuse of 'humanitarian intervention' and its legal implications.

Covering everything from the role of Europe and the UN, to people's tribunals, to broader accounts of the contradictions of war and human rights, the contributors offer new and innovative ways of examining the problems that we face.

Contributors include Leo Panitch, Sam Gindin, Jurgen Habermas, Ulrich Preuss, Andrew Arato, Samir Amin, Reg Whitaker, Denis Halliday and Hans von Sponeck.
'A first rate essay collection and a 'must read' for students of international law, politics and ethics'
Jean L. Cohen, Professor of Political Science, Columbia University
'It is extremely relevant ... the coverage is excellent'
Professor Bob Fine, Director, Social Theory Centre, Warwick University
'Right now there can't be enough discussion of America's role in world politics ... This is a much-needed collection from leading scholars'
Neil Stammers, Senior Lecturer in the Department of International Relations and Politics, University of Sussex