Paradox of Hierarchy and Conflicts of Values: International Law, Human Rights, and Global Governance

Abstract

In an international society, hierarchies are set up differently among different countries and societies based on different values, which are naturally conflicting and colliding with each other and result in unstable conditions. Is hierarchy really necessary in an international society? Does more hierarchical order in international society mean more peace? Do we need a supranational organization like the European Union whose laws can pierce state sovereignty and bind citizens of each member state? Does the United Nations need to be reformed to create an effective hierarchy, which will give international society more peace, security, and protection of human rights?

This article may not answer to all of these questions, but will attempt to theoretically and philosophically clarify hierarchical issues in international law, particularly in the human rights field, with examples.

Keywords: international law, hierarchy, philosophy, international theories, international institutions, United Nations, UN, human rights, development, human rights cities, indigenous, education, values, theories, transnational theory, New Haven, McDougal, Lasswell, Reisman, Neo-liberalism

JEL Classification: K00, K33