Rewriting Histories of the Use of Force : The Narrative of ‘Indifference'

"It is commonly taught that the prohibition of the use of force is an achievement of the twentieth century and that beforehand States were free to resort to the arms as they pleased. International law, the story goes, was 'indifferent' to the use of force. 'Reality' as it stems from historical sources, however, appears much more complex. Using tools of history, sociology, anthropology and social psychology, this monograph offers new insights into the history of the prohibition of the use of force in international law. Conducting in-depth analysis of nineteenth century doctrine and State practice, it paves the way for an alternative narrative on the prohibition of force, and seeks to understand the origins of international law's traditional account. In so doing, it also provides a more general reflection on how the discipline writes, rewrites and chooses to remember its own history"-- Provided by publisher This book is of interest to academics and practitioners working on international peace and security issues. It provides access to an extensive body of primary documentation and offers a different and original perspective on the history of the prohibition of the use of force in international law and relations.