Ascent to Freedom: Practical and Philosophical Foundations of Democratic World Law

Ascent to Freedom develops a philosophical framework for democratic world law by drawing on the scientific revolutions of the twentieth century, the history of philosophy of law, and contemporary discussions of law, democracy, and human rights. It traces the history of the philosophy of law from ancient times to the present, showing the progressive development of democratic thought that culminates in the imperative for global democracy. It examines the legitimacy of the dominant institutions in the contemporary world (monopoly capitalism and the nation-state system) and points beyond these destructive, fragmenting institutions to a holistic approach for human affairs. It concludes by developing the parameters and the likely consequences of a conversion to democratic world law for protecting the environment and human rights as well as creating a world system of peace and prosperity for everyone on Earth. Ascent to Freedom lays out both the practical and conceptual foundations for a transformed world order that can deal directly with our multiple global crises while creating peace and prosperity on Earth.