Modus vivendi

Modus vivendi is a Latin phrase that means "mode of living". In English it might be used literally, for example to describe lifestyles in biology, or it might be used conventionally, to signify an agreement to disagree when the opinions or intentions of parties are at least partly in dispute, say in business or politics.^[1]

For the use of the term to describe lifestyles in biology, see Habit_(biology)#Behavior.

Term

Modus means mode, way (or method, manner). Vivendi means of living. Together, way of living implies an accommodation between disputing parties to allow life to go on. It usually describes informal and temporary arrangements in political affairs. For example, if two sides reach a modus vivendi regarding disputed territories, despite political, historical or cultural incompatibilities, an accommodation of their respective differences is established for the sake of contingency. This sense of the term has been used as a keystone in the political philosophy of John N. Gray.

In diplomacy, a modus vivendi is an instrument for establishing an international accord of a temporary or provisional nature, intended to be replaced by a more substantial and thorough agreement, such as a treaty.^[2] It is usually fashioned informally and so never requires legislative ratification. Typically, armistices and instruments of surrender are modus vivendi.

Example

After Kuwait became independent in 1961, Iraq claimed that it remained Iraq's territory. However, after a British intervention, they backed down and formally recognised Kuwait's independence, establishing a modus vivendi. ^[3]

See also

• Modus operandi
• Latin phrases

References

1. Angus Stevenson (19 August 2010). Oxford Dictionary of English. OUP Oxford. pp. 1139–. ISBN 978-0-19-957112-3.
2. "United Nations Treaty Collection: Definitions". Retrieved 19 May 2015.
3. The Encyclopedia of Middle East Wars: The United States in the Persian Gulf, P. 600

External links

• Definition of key terms used in the UN Treaty Collection