Abstract

This article deals with Kant's theory of international law and cosmopolitan supranationalism. Analyzing Kant's works, I discuss a «non-ideal» interpretation of Kantian political theory, which is centered on the problematic role implemented by modern sovereignty in its normative dealing with cosmopolitanism. In particular, a N.I. approach helps us to clarify some difficulties and inconsistencies that traditionally spread out from Kantian text, which critics had generally acknowledged in terms of theoretical fallacies. Accordingly, I investigate the double-faced character of Kantian cosmopolitan normativity, which is focused on elements that properly refer to the N.I. side of politics, as the empirical character of legitimacy and the irrational constitution of political power as well.