Authority and the Metaphysics of Political Communities

This book explores the metaphysics of political communities, discussing how and why a plurality of individuals becomes a political unity, the principles or forces that keep that unity together, and the threats that unity can face. It supports a moderately realist theory of substances and their principles of unity, argues that the acknowledgement of reasons by agents is constitutive of action, and claims that the principle of unity of a political community is its authority to give members moral reasons for action.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 252 pages
Publication date: 29 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the intricate realm of political communities, exploring the metaphysical foundations that underpin their existence. It examines the process by which a diverse group of individuals comes together to form a cohesive political unity, the principles or forces that sustain that unity, and the challenges that threaten its stability.

In Part I, the author establishes the necessity of the concept of substance in metaphysics, both in general and in the specific context of political metaphysics. He presents a moderately realist theory of substances and their principles of unity, which supports the notion of substantial gradualism. This theory posits that entities can grow and change over time, gradually acquiring new properties and characteristics.

Part II delves into the realm of action theory and the nature of practical reason. The author argues that the acknowledgment of reasons by agents is a fundamental aspect of action and that normativity depends on the role of the good in the formation of reasons. He explores the relationship between moral values, rationality, and the pursuit of the good.

Part III focuses on the notion of political community. The author asserts that the principle of unity of a political community lies in its authority to provide members with moral reasons for action. This suggests a middle ground between liberal individualism and organicism, advocating for a holistic understanding of political life. The author demonstrates the significance of this view by discussing contemporary political issues such as the role of religion in the public sphere and the political significance of cultural identity.

Authority and the Metaphysics of Political Communities is a valuable resource for researchers and advanced students engaged in social metaphysics, political philosophy, philosophy of action, and the philosophy of the social sciences. It offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the metaphysical foundations of political communities, providing a rich framework for understanding the complexities of political life.

Weight: 353g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032400372