Theories of Sovereignty: Bodin, Hobbes, Austin & Pluralists

2026-05-16

Exam Snapshot

Sovereignty is a core jurisprudence topic. MCQs test proponents of absolute sovereignty (Monism), the critique by Pluralists, and concepts like indivisibility and the location of sovereignty in the Nepali context.

Core Concept

• Monism (Classical): Sovereignty is absolute, indivisible, and resides in a single, determinate person or body.
• Jean Bodin: Defined sovereignty as absolute and perpetual power of the commonwealth. Bound only by divine/natural law.
• Thomas Hobbes: Sovereignty is absolute, indivisible, and unquestionable (Leviathan). The sovereign is above the law.
• John Austin: Defined law as the 'command of a sovereign' backed by sanctions. The sovereign is habitually obeyed but obeys no other.
• Pluralism (Modern Critique): Rejects absolute sovereignty. Power is distributed among various associations (unions, churches, families).
• Proponents: Harold Laski, G.D.H. Cole, Ernest Barker.

Nepal Law Anchors

• Constitution of Nepal (2015), Article 258: Sovereignty and state authority are inherent in the Nepali people. This aligns with modern democratic theory, rejecting absolute monarchical sovereignty.

Confusable Terms

• Internal Sovereignty: Supreme authority within borders.
• External Sovereignty: Independence from external control (international sovereignty).

MCQ Traps

• Indivisibility: Monists claim sovereignty is indivisible; Pluralists reject this.
• Source of Law: Austin links law to the sovereign's command; Pluralists see law arising from various sources.
• Nepali context: Don't confuse the popular sovereignty in Nepal's Constitution with the absolute monarchy concepts of Bodin/Hobbes.

Example

If a King creates all laws without challenge, this is monism. If multiple groups (unions, churches) influence law-making, this is pluralism.

Memory Hook

• Austin = Absolute Authority.
• Pluralists = Partitioned Power.

Quick Revision

• Monism (Bodin, Hobbes, Austin): Single, absolute sovereign.
• Pluralism (Laski, Cole): Power distributed.
• Nepal (Art 258): Sovereignty in the People.
• Austin's Law: Sovereign command + Sanction.