The phantom of sovereignty in contemporary political philosophy

Seyla Benhabib

Chapter 5 in Research Handbook on the Law and Politics of Sovereignty, 2026, pp 75-93 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: This chapter deals with the notion of sovereignty in contemporary political philosophy, opening with a working definition that separates internal from external sovereignty. It examines the so-called Westphalian model – frequently, though incorrectly, credited as the birthplace of modern sovereignty – and considers historical critiques of this interpretation. The discussion then turns to the post-Second World War transformation of sovereignty, marked by a dual model that attempts to reconcile state equality with universal human rights, a balance fraught with tensions. Finally, the chapter analyzes the differentiation between state and popular sovereignty, focusing on the perspectives of Jürgen Habermas and Michel Foucault, and reflects on the renewed interest in the concept of a “post-sovereign” constitution.

Keywords: Westphalian model; Contemporary Political Philosophy; Jürgen Habermas; Michel Foucault (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781803926346
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