The Metaphysics of Statehood

Abstract

This paper considers the connections between the Statehood/recognition debate in international law and social ontology. I aim to show that certain theories of social ontology, which I call Groupjective Internalism, can be used to defend Constitutive Theories of Statehood. Among philosophers whom I consider committed to Groupjective Internalism are major figures in the field: Searle, Gilbert and Tuomela. This is an interesting result as Constitutive Theories are generally looked upon with suspicion in international law.

Keywords: Statehood, International Law, Declaratory Theory, Constitutive Theory, Social Ontology, Recognition

JEL Classification: K10, K33