ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT Globalisation, 9/11 and the USA’s ‘war on terror’ have shaken the foundations of 21st century world order, leading to consensus on the need for an effective and benevolent form of global governance, but there is little agreement on how this should be implemented. Distinguishing between Westphalian pessimists and optimists (the former doubtful of the state system’s ability to solve the current crisis; the latter convinced that said system can be adapted and modified to do so), this article examines the different approaches currently being taken to global governance, concluding that a post-Westphalian solution must be achieved. However, it rejects the notion of benevolent (US) empire, with its reliance on militarisation and pre-emptive action, and argues instead for a law-oriented approach espousing cosmopolitan values and striving for global justice and global democracy. The rise of a global civil society and the growing influence of transnational social forces are among the trends that suggest this may be possible.
