The Third Way and Its Critics: Sequel to "The Third Way" - Softcover

Giddens, Anthony

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0745624502 ISBN 13: 9780745624501

Publisher: Polity, 2000

Synopsis

The idea of finding a 'third way' in politics has become a focus of discussion across the world. Political leaders, in the US, Europe, Asia and Latin America claim to be following its principles. Yet the notion has also attracted much criticism. Some say it is an empty concept without any real content. Critics from the more traditional left argue that it is a betrayal of left-wing ideals.

About this title

Review

The Left see it as a weak attempt to justify selling socialist principles down the river; the Right as a meaningless concept designed to obscure New Labour's theft of its clothes. It has often been easier to say what The Third Way is not--not socialism, not unfettered capitalism--than what it is. Now Anthony Giddens, an architect of the political philosophy and the man credited--at least by his publishers--with being Tony Blair's "guru", responds to critics who scorned his 1998 work, The Third Way. Giddens, director of the London School of Economics and Political Science, analyses but rejects the notion that The Third Way is merely post hoc justification for policies designed to appeal to the middle classes. He identifies six fundamentals: an acceptance that Left and Right no longer apply to all politics; that constraints are needed on government, the economy and communities of civil society; the creation of a new social contract in which there are responsibilities as well as rights; extensive social investment in education, communications and infrastructure; the fostering of a diversified society based on egalitarian principles; participation in global change. The Third Way and its Critics is an easy-to-read primer on the subject from the man who knows what he is talking about. Whether what he is talking about is more than light and mirrors, you'll have to decide for yourself.--Kim Fletcher

Review

'There is now a global attempt to apply progressive values in new ways. The debate about the Third Way is vital to politics in the 21st century. This book is an important contribution to the debate.' Tony Blair, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom

'This is a crucial period for the European Union. We need new thinking about democracy and economic development. Tony Giddens gives us some vital clues about how to achieve these aims.' Romano Prodi, President of the European Commission

'The third way debate has become a truly world-wide one, affecting all countries. It has shown a convergence of ideas, together with a diversity of policies. This book marks a major further development in the evolution of the left.' Fernando Henrique Cardoso, President of Brazil

'Anthony Giddens has done more than most to insert globalization into the modern-day political vocabulary. His The Third Way and its Critics is essential reading for anyone wanting to understand new Labour.' Mark Perryman, New Statesman

'Giddens aims his new book specifically at critics on the left. It begins with an excellent summary of their views: with impressive honesty they are forcefully advanced rather than caricatured ... This book is written in a lively manner and discusses much interesting and important material.' Democratization

Edition details

• Publisher: Polity
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 0745624502
• ISBN 13: 9780745624501
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 198