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The force of prescriptions

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  • Kratochwil, Friedrich

Abstract

How do norms influence choices in social life? Conceptual distinctions among types of norms and suggestions in the work of Hobbes, Hume, and Durkheim help us investigate in greater detail the “woolly” concept of regimes in international relations. When we disaggregate the “set of explicit and implicit norms, rules, and decisionmaking procedures” in a given issue area and focus on the conceptual links between rules, principles (norms), and actions, we gain an understanding of the role of norms in social life that is more comprehensive than the understanding provided by traditional accounts. Furthermore, placing the present regime discussion within wider philosophical traditions enables us to develop a more critical approach to the building of theory in the social sciences, since the use of norms as explanatory devices challenges the predominant positivist outlook in several important respects.

Suggested Citation

  • Kratochwil, Friedrich, 1984. "The force of prescriptions," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 38(4), pages 685-708, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:intorg:v:38:y:1984:i:04:p:685-708_02
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    Cited by:

    1. Wiener, Antje, 2007. "Making normative meaning accountable in international politics," Discussion Papers, Research Unit: Global Governance SP IV 2007-305, WZB Berlin Social Science Center.
    2. Stephen, Matthew D., 2015. "‘Can you pass the salt?’ The legitimacy of international institutions and indirect speech," EconStor Open Access Articles and Book Chapters, ZBW - Leibniz Information Centre for Economics, vol. 21(4), pages 768-792.
    3. Katzenstein, Peter Joachim, 1990. "Analyzing change in international politics: The new institutionalism and the interpretative approach," MPIfG Discussion Paper 90/10, Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies.
    4. Jens Steffek, 2000. "The Power of Rational Discourse and the Legitimacy of International Governance," EUI-RSCAS Working Papers 46, European University Institute (EUI), Robert Schuman Centre of Advanced Studies (RSCAS).

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