Foundations of Civic Engagement: Rethinking Social and Political Philosophy - Softcover

Ellis, Ralph

 
9780761835356: Foundations of Civic Engagement: Rethinking Social and Political Philosophy
Softcover
ISBN 10: 0761835350 ISBN 13: 9780761835356
Publisher: University Press Of America, 2006

Synopsis

Foundations of Civic Engagement is a comprehensive survey and reassessment of the entire field of social and political philosophy. Suitable for use as a primary text for courses on political thought, this book explores the basic arguments of the most important historical and contemporary figures and offers a thematic critique and integration of these philosophies. This dynamic book includes in-depth discussions of Ancient Greek, modern and contemporary theories of communitarianism, social contract, feminism, classical liberal rights-based approaches, African American philosophy, postmodernism, Marxism, critical theory, and theories of communicative actions (e.g. Habermas). Throughout philosophical history, there is a tension between social development of the political person? as in personalist, communitarian, feminist, postmodern, and Continental thought? and the abstract contractual principles needed for impartial justice and freedom of conscience. This chasm can be bridged to some extent by combining ideal contractualism with the tools of feminist theory, discourse ethics, and critical theory. Foundations of Civic Engagement evaluates these tensions, as well as the criticisms and response to criticism for each theory, in order to promote open dialogue, analysis, and a realistic assessment of each philosophy.

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About the Author

Norman J. Fischer II is associate professor of philosophy at Clark Atlanta University.

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Publisher
University Press Of America
Publication date
2006
Language
English
ISBN 10 
0761835350
ISBN 13 
9780761835356
Binding
Paperback
Number of pages
340