Radical Democracy: Identity, Citizenship and the State

ISBN-13: 9780415912471 / Angielski / Miękka / 1995 / 248 str.

David Trend

Opis

This text addresses the loss of faith in conventional party politics, and argues for new ways of thinking about diversity, liberty, and civic responsibility. Long debated in political circles, radical democracy as discussed here becomes interdisciplinary. The cultural and social theorists in this book broaden the discussion beyond the conventional and conservative rhetoric by investigating the applicability of radical democracy in the United States. Issues debated include whether democracy is primarily a form of decision making or an instrument of popular empowerment; whether democracy constitutes an abstract ideal or an achievable goal; and how radical a democracy is preferable in a nation like the US. The contributors include well-known voices in social and cultural theory today - a diverse group of intellectuals, grassroots activists, and academics involved in identity-based movements. They often disagree. What they share is the belief in political possibility and the perception that change is attainable.

Recenzje

"This is an impressive volume... you'll get some valuable nuggets of information... It's an important book for anyone who wants to learn more about the political left through the years and in the future." -- The American Reporter ...a number of them [the essays] do offer resources for thinking through more effective responses to its complexities. The best essays do so as part of efforts to chart intellectual and strategic paths that avoid the pitfalls of identity politics without simply doing away with its insights and gains.

O autorze

David Trend is Director of the Center for Social Research and Education. He is the Executive Director for Socialist Review, published by CSRE.