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2 - A Theory of Normativity

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  06 January 2022

Simon Frankel Pratt
Affiliation:
University of Melbourne
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Summary

In Chapter 2, I draw from pragmatist philosophy and relational sociology to develop a new theory of normativity and institutional change. I propose the concept of a normative configuration as an alternative to the concept of a norm, defined as an arrangement of ongoing, interacting practices establishing action-specific regulation, value-orientation, and avenues of contestation. I argue that situated creativity, problem-solving, and the institutionalisation of action establish normativity within enduring social arrangements. This alternative conception helps clarify the origins of normativity in situations where existing IR theory is limiting, as I show through a review of scholarship on norms drawn both from the field of IR and from the social sciences and humanities more broadly. To develop this new concept, I draw heavily from the work of John Dewey, Hans Joas, and the insights of practice theorists.

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Normative Transformation and the War on Terrorism
The Evolution of Targeted Killing, Torture, and Private Military Contracting
, pp. 15 - 37
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2022

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  • A Theory of Normativity
  • Simon Frankel Pratt, University of Melbourne
  • Book: Normative Transformation and the War on Terrorism
  • Online publication: 06 January 2022
  • Chapter DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009092326.003
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  • A Theory of Normativity
  • Simon Frankel Pratt, University of Melbourne
  • Book: Normative Transformation and the War on Terrorism
  • Online publication: 06 January 2022
  • Chapter DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009092326.003
Available formats
×

Save book to Google Drive

To save content items to your account, please confirm that you agree to abide by our usage policies. If this is the first time you use this feature, you will be asked to authorise Cambridge Core to connect with your account. Find out more about saving content to Google Drive.

  • A Theory of Normativity
  • Simon Frankel Pratt, University of Melbourne
  • Book: Normative Transformation and the War on Terrorism
  • Online publication: 06 January 2022
  • Chapter DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009092326.003
Available formats
×