Kelsen's Pure Theory of Law, Theory of Democracy and Pacifism through Law: Three Sides of the Same Worldview

Kelsen’s Pure Theory of Law is usually – and principally – discussed separately from his political theories on democracy and pacifism. Although it is accurate – for the sake of ‘purity’ – to keep distinguishing between Kelsen’s Pure Theory and his political theories, I argue that an interconnected reading of his writings on law, democracy and peace would do most justice to his philosophical view, i.e. his ‘worldview’. I conclude that even according to Kelsen’s own argument it is not justified to see his theories on law, democracy and peace as strictly separated, because they form three sides of the same worldview. A view of great value for the present-day world, in which the opposite worldview is rapidly gaining ground.