A Relational View of Sovereignty

Abstract

In this chapter I will attempt to draw all the strands of my argument together. Most feminists speak of the centrality of relationships but we will have to make clear what the implication of a relational view of sovereignty is. I shall argue that a coherent notion of a relationship must find space for a concept of the individual and her or his rights. The need to detach sovereignty from the state flows from the particular relational feminism I shall defend. The essence of my position is this. The concept of self-sovereignty can only develop as governmental processes replace those of the state.