Human Rights for Pragmatists: Social Power in Modern Times

An innovative framework for advancing human rights

Human rights are among our most pressing issues today, yet rights promoters have reached an impasse in their effort to achieve rights for all. Human Rights for Pragmatists explains why: activists prioritize universal legal and moral norms, backed by the public shaming of violators, but in fact rights prevail only when they serve the interests of powerful local constituencies. Jack Snyder demonstrates that where local power and politics lead, rights follow. He presents an innovative roadmap for addressing a broad agenda of human rights concerns: impunity for atrocities, dilemmas of free speech in the age of social media, entrenched abuses of women's rights, and more.

Exploring the historical development of human rights around the globe, Snyder shows that liberal rights-based states have experienced a competitive edge over authoritarian regimes in the modern era. He focuses on the role of power, the interests of individuals and the groups they form, and the dynamics of bargaining and coalitions among those groups. The path to human rights entails transitioning from a social order grounded in patronage and favoritism to one dedicated to equal treatment under impersonal rules. Rights flourish when they benefit dominant local actors with the clout to persuade ambivalent peers. Activists, policymakers, and others attempting to advance rights should embrace a tailored strategy, one that acknowledges local power structures and cultural practices.

Constructively turning the mainstream framework of human rights advocacy on its head, Human Rights for Pragmatists offers tangible steps that all advocates can take to move the rights project forward.

Author: Jack Snyder
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Published: 11/26/2024
Pages: 328
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 1.11lbs
Size: 9.21h x 6.14w x 0.73d
ISBN: 9780691231556

About the Author
Jack Snyder is the Robert and Renée Belfer Professor of International Relations at Columbia University. His many books include From Voting to Violence, Myths of Empire, and Human Rights Futures.