Could California Secede? A Philosophical Discussion
ABSTRACT
Secession has returned to the political discourse in the US and grassroots secessionist movements have developed in California. There is significant literature regarding the norms of secession from an international law perspective. This paper seeks to delve into the philosophical debates that influence the positions of international law on secession. Under what conditions is the break-up of states justifiable in a post-colonial world? Would a Calexit from the US be a possibility? Relevant theories of Primary Right and Remedial Right secession will be applied to the hypothetical case of California.
INTRODUCTION
It is constructive to engage in a speculative debate on the subject of secession due to its prominent nature in philosophy and international law. This paper seeks to pose a hypothetical question of whether or not the state of California could secede from the United States to stimulate an academic discussion. In posing this question on the feasibility of a California secession, the debate will be focused on the broader philosophical debates surrounding secession. It is important to discuss the philosophical approaches to the issue as the field of study has significant influence on the position of international law. Distinct conclusions on secession will be drawn from each philosophical…
