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Prefiguring Subjection: Reconsidering Pseudolaw

delete2026-05-01
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PRE
AI
S
Stephen Young *
L
Lobbert, Anna
DOI:10.1177/17438721261448855delete
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Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
This article examines the global rise of pseudolaw-an umbrella term encompassing sovereign citizens, Freemen on the Land, Reichsb & uuml;rger, and related movements that reject state authority while performing their own versions of law. Building on examples from Germany, New Zealand, Australia, and North America, it argues that pseudolaw cannot be understood merely as pathology or delusion. Instead, it should be seen as a form of prefigurative legality: a performative practice through which adherents enact alternative legal orders as if their desired sovereignty already exists. By drafting documents, issuing liens, or conducting courtroom rituals, participants embody legality without institutional sanction, challenging the state's monopoly over lawful meaning and subjection. There are, however, differences between pseudolaw and other forms of prefigurative practice. Accordingly, evaluating pseudolaw as prefigurative legality extends our understanding of legal prefiguration.
Keywords:
prefiguration
prefigurative legality
pseudolaw
sovereign
subjection

Journal

L
Law Culture and the Humanities
IF:
0.5
Papers:
33
Citations:
0

Organization

U
University of Otago
Scholars:
339
Papers: 140
Citations: 0
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