EMMERICH DE VATTEL (1714–67), Swiss jurist and diplomat. A disciple of Wolff, Vattel was inspired to restate the famous philosopher's theory of international law for a wider and more practically minded audience. The result of this effort, The Law of Nations (1758), became an instant classic. Though often called the first really modern work of international law, Vattel's book remains firmly in the tradition of natural law and for that reason might equally be seen as one of the last specimens of a moribund genre. Its fame rests not on its theoretical power but on Vattel's impressive practical grasp of international affairs and his skill in balancing moral and prudential considerations in a way suited to the prejudices of his day.
From The Law of Nations or Principles of Natural Law
The Dignity and Equality of Nations. Titles and Other Marks of Honor
Every Nation, every sovereign and independent State, is deserving of honor and respect as having a recognized position in the great society of the human race, as being independent of any power on earth, and as possessing, by reason of its numbers, a greater importance than belongs to the individual. The sovereign represents the entire Nation of which he is head, and unites in his person the attributes which belong to the Nation.
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