United Nations Rule of Law Program: Approaches to phenomena

抄録

Our construction of meaning may be shaped by one of two possible approaches to phenomena. The first assumes a set of concrete facts, existing in the material world, which may be used as the basis of analysis. This process results in the development of a conceptual interpretation of the phenomenon, which may then be applied more broadly in order to ascribe meaning to other situations or events. The second approach involves the analysis of an abstract principle as the starting point of inquiry, leading to the development of a general theory.

If these two perspectives are applied to peace studies, the former approach will involve the exploration of specific conflicts that have occurred in the history of the world. Through such an exploration, a theory of conflict resolution may be developed. An alternative course of inquiry might be to examine the notion of peace itself as an abstract or theoretical construct. Both approaches to the subject may be viewed as equally valid. However, the narrative that has been produced by the United Nations on the subject of the Rule of Law derives its meaning from the analysis of a set of assumed concepts, without there being reference to specific facts or empirical evidence. In this respect, its narrative may be seen to be flawed in that it fails to take into account world history; it also does not provide clarity with regard to the activities of the international organization. This omission should be viewed as a matter of concern, given that the charter of this organization enables it to use force in the resolution of perceived conflict.