Book Review: Philosophies of Polar Law

A central policy and scholarly concern of international environmental law is the degree of its effectiveness. Several criteria have been offered for defining this overall objective—from changes in physical parameters in the atmosphere, seas, and on land to increased cooperation among nations and peoples who aim to protect the planet. What has been less often addressed is the underlying philosophy that one takes in considerations of the outcomes of legal initiatives. Is the aim of law utilitarian? Is it one of equality of enjoyment or use or exploitation of resources [if so, for whom?]. Should human legal requirements favor those living now or future generations? How should we value human impacts in comparison to the effects on nature? Is there a common good? This volume is a solid contribution to addressing these fundamental concerns. It addresses fascinating questions about goals of law, here Polar law, and it does so in a comprehensive, accessible and convincing way. The volume tackles the fundamental: What is Polar Law trying to achieve? What should be its goals? Philosophies of Polar Law provides perspectives for scholars and policymakers, those for whom this is a first exploration and those who may have set views of the answers.