Decentering Universalism: An Autopoietic-Deconstructive Inquiry into Undecidability and Performative Power in Global Normative Orders

Abstract

This paper examines the self-referential nature of international norm-production through aGödelian perspective, arguing that inherent paradoxes and undecidability undermine theperceived coherence and universal applicability of international legal systems. Building onmathematical logic, autopoietic systems theory, and deconstruction, we reveal howinternational law, in its pursuit of foundational validity, defaults to circular justifications andinternal contradictions. Case studies of jus cogens , self-defence, sovereign equality, and non-intervention, alongside ICJ and regional court jurisprudence, empirically demonstrate that Log in Menu Search Cart Home Liverpool Law Review Article Decentering Universalism: An Autopoietic-Deconstructive Inquiry into Undecidability andPerformative Power in Global Normative Orders Published: 24 September 2025 ( 2025 ) Cite this article Aims and scope Submit manuscript international law’s apparent objectivity is often stabilized by performative practice,interpretive closure, and the disguised exercise of power. This research proposes a post-Gödelian understanding that embraces incompleteness, shifting focus to dynamic norm-production sustained by political will and ethical imperatives.