Civil Disobedience from Nepal to Norway: Traditions, Extensions, and Civility

This volume explores the changes in the theory, definition, understanding, and practice of civil disobedience in contemporary politics, as social activism takes on increasingly global forms. It discusses new theoretical and political dilemmas and paradoxes through empirical cases and practical examples from Europe, the United States, and South Asia, providing a "mirroring" perspective for the challenges and complexities of civil disobedience in different parts of the world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume delves into the profound transformations that have shaped the theorization, definition, understanding, and practice of civil disobedience in contemporary politics. As social activism assumes increasingly global dimensions, the aspirations and objectives of individuals and groups who identify as disobedient activists today can be framed in broader cultural contexts, surpassing the confines of previous generations. The relationship between these activists and law and violence becomes increasingly ambiguous, blurring the lines between traditionally defined forms of civil disobedience.

It is important to note that civil disobedience may no longer be exclusively nonviolent, as its purposes and outcomes may diverge from progressive or emancipatory agendas. The manifestations of civil disobedience often defy the clear distinctions established in "classic" and philosophically justified forms of nonviolent protest, as exemplified by the mass nonviolent movements led by figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King. Moreover, the theoretical frameworks of Arendt, Rawls, and Dworkin, which have traditionally guided civil disobedience, may no longer provide a clear roadmap for understanding its contemporary manifestations.

Over time, the nature and operation of civil disobedience have undergone significant changes, and this volume aims to unravel its diverse contemporary manifestations. By presenting empirical cases and practical examples from Europe, the United States, and South Asia, the book offers a "mirroring" perspective that enables a deeper understanding of the challenges and complexities associated with civil disobedience in different parts of the world.

This volume brings together innovative and introspective perspectives on individuals and protests in contemporary political contexts, appealing to scholars and philosophers of political science, international relations theory, political philosophy, peace and conflict studies, sociology, and cultural studies. By exploring the evolving nature of civil disobedience, this volume contributes to our understanding of the dynamics and complexities of contemporary politics and offers valuable insights into the strategies and tactics employed by disobedient activists in their pursuit of social change.

Weight: 435g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032340869