Structuralism and Interpretation in the Theory of International Law: Cracking the Code?

Abstract

It is argued that the distinction between structuralism and post-structuralism is of heuristic value in uncovering conceptual frameworks and possibilities in the theory of international law. International law, it is suggested, has never been structuralist, although this need not discourage it from seeking to be post-structuralist. Some aspects of the work of Koskenniemi are discussed in this context. This is a slightly revised version of a Conference paper presented at the Interpretation in International Law Conference, Cambridge 2013.

Keywords: international law, post-structuralism