This chapter examines international relations since the Enlightenment. Topics covered include the League of Nations, the United Nations, warring nations, the moral pressure of human rights, and global jurisdiction versus national sovereignty. It is argued that the present situation with regard to Enlightenment ideals in the sphere of international relations is very similar to that of education. In both cases, it appears at first glance that subsequent generations have indeed realized a good many Enlightenment hopes. However, the reality underneath the surface is quite different. There exists a variety of minimally functional but by no means robust international institutions and an abundance of global rules, and they are both contributing to the creation of a global civil society. But there is still no peace.
Keywords: Enlightenment, international relations, League of Nations, United Nations, human rights, global jurisdiction, national sovereignty