European Conquest and the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: The Moral Backwardness of International Society (Cambridge Studies in International Relations) [Hardcover]

Paul Keal (Author)

Book Description

Series: Cambridge Studies in International Relations | Publication Date: September 22, 2003

Paul Keal examines the historical role of international law and political theory in justifying the dispossession of indigenous peoples as part of the expansion of international society. Paradoxically, he argues, law and political theory can now form the basis of the recovery of indigenous rights. Arguing for the recognition of indigenous peoples as "peoples" with the right of self-determination in constitutional and international law, Keal questions the moral legitimacy of international society and examines concepts of collective guilt and responsibility.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'Keal has written an important book that has been long overdue in the study of International Relations. Until now, the concerns of indigenous peoples have been present in the postcolonial literature but largely ignored in IR ( with a few exceptions). No doubt one of the reasons for this is the stupefying tendency to refer to such political movements as 'domestic'. Keal elegantly reveals the hollow basis of this argument.' International Affairs

'... Keal's book will give a good sense of the range of issues involved ... clear and concise ... an eloquent testimony to the intellectual and political challenges raised by the growing world-wide mobilization of indigenous peoples.' Ethnic and Racial Studies

'European Conquest and the Rights of Indigenous Peoples is a valuable contribution to a debate that has persisted since Europeans made first contact with alien civilizations. Keal presents his arguments with great clarity. Contemporary Political Theory

Book Description

Paul Keal examines the historical role of international law and political theory in justifying the dispossession of indigenous peoples as part of the expansion of international society. Paradoxically, he argues, law and political theory can now underpin the recovery of indigenous rights. Arguing for the recognition of indigenous peoples as 'peoples' with the right of self-determination in constitutional and international law, Keal questions the moral legitimacy of international society and examines notions of collective guilt and responsibility. This accessible study provides important insights into contemporary international society.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 276 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press (September 22, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521824710
• ISBN-13: 978-0521824712
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6.2 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,205,427 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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