Humanity in international political theory: Chris Brown and the principles, politics and practice of humanitarianism

This chapter argues that Chris Brown’s work can help us negotiate the key dilemmas of humanitarian action. It takes the classic humanitarian principles—neutrality, impartiality, independence and humanity—as entry points for international political theorists to engage with this fascinating practice. Brown’s suspicion of anti-politics casts doubt on the possibility of humanitarian neutrality and independence. His defence of selective humanitarianism helps to de-fetishise the idea of impartiality. His notion of practical judgement fits well with the real politics of humanitarianism, and his understanding of tragedy provides a space for humanitarians to consider the challenges they face in attempting to uphold humanity. Ultimately, Brown’s situated internationalism may be a better vector for humanitarian politics than some variants of cosmopolitanism.