Beyond Civil Disobedience: Social Nullification and Black Citizenship

This book explores the idea of Social Nullification, the rejection of the social contract with a state and society, and challenges the US commitment to African American citizenship through the lens of Social Contract Theory. It examines the history of Social Contract Theory, Nullification as a political and legal theory, public policy as a measure of the state's commitment, and the writings and activism of Martin R. Delany, Ida B. Wells-Barnett, and the African American Reparations Movement as examples of Social Nullification.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 139 pages
Publication date: 22 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This book delves deeply into the intricate nature and status of African American citizenship, employing the framework of Social Contract Theory to shed light on the prevailing issues. It poses a challenging question to the United States' commitment to African American citizenship, delving into the concept of Social Nullification. This concept entails the rejection, revocation, and re-definition of the social contract between a state and society. Charles F. Peterson, in his comprehensive survey of Social Contract Theory's historical development, examines Nullification as a political and legal theory. He also argues that public policy serves as a crucial measure of the state's commitment to the contractarian relationship. Furthermore, Peterson frames the writings and activism of prominent figures such as Martin R. Delany, Ida B. Wells-Barnett, and the African American Reparations Movement as examples of Social Nullification and manifestations of challenges to the prevailing terms of Black life in America. Through this insightful exploration, the book offers a profound analysis of the complex dynamics shaping African American citizenship and sheds light on the urgent need for transformative change.

Weight: 203g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030775568
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021