The Morality of Politics - by Ulf Hedetoft (Paperback)

About the Book

This book deals with the morality, self-conception and honour of states, something that goes well beyond the narrow, rationalist defence of national interests, which dominates most IR studies. The volume pursues this line of thinking by focussing on three different but interconnected thematics: moralism, honour and war.

Book Synopsis

This book deals with the morality, self-conception and honour of states, something that goes well beyond the narrow, rationalist defence of national interests, which dominates most IR studies. The volume pursues this line of thinking by focussing on three different but interconnected thematics: moralism, honour and war.

Review Quotes

'Hedetoft's essay is extremely timely. It brings to light issues of morality, honour and prestige - topics largely neglected in mainstream International Relations research. Using the Russo-Ukrainian war as an example, it enhances our under-standing of how wars are legitimised by political leaders seeking to secure domestic loyalty and win over international public opinion.' - Bo Petersson, Professor of Political Science at Malmö University, Sweden

'In his far-ranging analysis of critical issues concerned with morality, national honour, prestige, tolerance and war - along with a flurry of European case studies - Professor Hedetoft provocatively concludes that "political morality is a strange creature, always ready to provide political actors with the clean conscience they need when they set even the most horrific events in motion". He raises a further question: Does a state wage war only because national honour is at stake? This book provides a whirlwind of intelligent thought scholars will embrace.' - Raymond Taras, Professor Emeritus, Tulane University, USA

About the Author

Ulf Hedetoft is Professor, dr. phil., at the University of Copenhagen. His research interests include the theory and history of state, sovereignty and nationalism, with a special focus on Europe.