Thinking Global Podcast – Anthony F. Lang Jr
The Enduring Relevance of hugo grotius in International Relations
By Ahmed Hassan, Pulitzer-winning Chief Editor
Professor Anthony F. Lang Jr., a leading scholar of International Political Theory at the university of St. Andrews, Scotland, recently discussed the enduring significance of Hugo Grotius and the complexities of international relations on the Thinking Global podcast with Kieran O’Meara and Daniel drury. LangS work, deeply rooted in both ancient and contemporary thought, explores the intersection of politics, law, and ethics on a global scale.
Lang’s research delves into crucial areas like global constituent power, international organizations, international law, and military intervention. He draws upon a rich intellectual lineage, referencing 20th-century thinkers such as Hans Morgenthau, Hannah Arendt, and Judith Shklar, alongside foundational figures like Aristotle and, crucially, Hugo Grotius.
The podcast conversation touched upon conceptualizing International Political theory (IPT), the role of normativity in understanding international relations, and reflections on worldwide values. A central theme was the importance of Grotius, a 17th-century jurist often considered a foundational figure in international law.Grotius’s work is often contrasted with that of Thomas Hobbes, representing a more optimistic view of international order. The “Grotian tradition,” as it’s known,emphasizes the possibility of an international society governed by rules and shared principles,accommodating both the pursuit of national interests and a sense of common humanity.Professor Lang’s own contributions to the field are considerable. He is Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of International Political Theory and serves on the editorial boards of Ethics & International Affairs and Human Rights Review. He has also consulted for organizations like the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the UK Ministry of Defence on ethical and legal issues. Prior to his current role, Lang taught at Albright College, Yale University, and Bard College, and was a Program Officer at the Carnegie Council for Ethics in International affairs, directing programs on ethics, religion, and foreign policy.
Lang’s current work focuses on the challenges of universality in a world marked by diverse values and perspectives. He is one of the founding editors of Global Constitutionalism, a journal dedicated to exploring the development of constitutional principles at the international level. His scholarship underscores the ongoing relevance of grappling with essential questions of authority,rules,rights,and responsibilities in a globalized world.
The Thinking Global podcast episode offers a valuable insight into Professor Lang’s thinking and the continuing importance of figures like Grotius in navigating the complexities of contemporary international relations. It highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of history, ethics, and law to address the challenges facing the international community today.