Political obligation remains one of the most discussed, and contested, topics in political philosophy. Whether there is a peremptory or prima facie duty to obey the state has been the subject of rigorous philosophical debate, with philosophers offering various theories both in support of and against political obligation.
Many theorists argue that if individuals are obligated to obey the state, then the state must possess legitimate authority. Defending such authority requires that the state itself be justified. Thus, a foundational question in the debate on political obligation is whether the state can, in fact, be justified. Philosophical anarchists challenge this premise, arguing that the state cannot be justified, and therefore cannot claim a moral right to demand obedience.
What grounds, if any, can be offered for the authority of the state, and citizens’ duty to obey its laws? This volume explores various recent attempts to justify state authority, as well as some efforts to claim that there is no justification.
The chapters in this volume focus on developments from the 20th century to the present. The scope of the book is limited to the Western philosophical tradition.