Deprovincializing Habermas: Global Perspectives

This book offers a critical exploration of Jürgen Habermas' political theory from non-Western perspectives, examining its implications for various themes and contexts. It is valuable for scholars and students in political theory, global justice, international affairs, philosophy, and critical theory, as well as those in postcolonial studies, religious studies, sociology, and cultural studies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 276 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive and insightful book delves into Jürgen Habermas' political theory from critical perspectives beyond its Western confines. It offers a constructive examination of the theory's implications for diverse non-Western contexts, spanning from Latin America and the Middle East to India and China, and addressing a range of themes such as cosmopolitanism, democracy, human rights, colonialism, feminism, care, modernity, and religion. The second edition of this book includes additional chapters that explore Habermas' response to the charge of provincialism. This book is of immense interest to scholars and students engaged in political theory, global justice, international affairs, philosophy, critical theory, as well as those working in postcolonial studies, religious studies, sociology, and cultural studies.

Introduction:
Habermas' political theory is widely recognized as a groundbreaking and influential framework that has significantly contributed to our understanding of democracy, communication, and the role of the public sphere in modern society. However, its application and relevance to non-Western contexts have been a subject of ongoing debate and exploration. This book aims to bridge that gap by providing a comprehensive and systematic engagement with Habermas' political theory from critical perspectives outside its Western locus.

Critical Perspectives:
The book brings together a diverse range of scholars and experts from various fields, including political theory, global justice, international affairs, philosophy, and critical theory. Each contributor offers their unique insights and perspectives, challenging Habermas' theory from different angles and exploring its implications for non-Western contexts. The authors employ a range of analytical tools, such as postcolonialism, feminist theory, and critical race theory, to analyze Habermas' ideas and assess their relevance and applicability in different cultural and historical settings.

Non-Western Contexts:
The book takes a multi-dimensional approach to examining Habermas' political theory in non-Western contexts. It explores the historical, cultural, and social factors that shape these contexts and how Habermas' ideas can be adapted or modified to address their specific challenges and realities. The authors highlight the complexities and nuances of non-Western societies, including their diverse religious, ethnic, and cultural traditions, and how Habermas' theories can contribute to the promotion of democratic values and human rights in these contexts.

Theory Implications:
The book examines the broad range of themes addressed by Habermas' political theory, including cosmopolitanism, democracy, human rights, and the role of the public sphere in shaping social and political processes. It explores how Habermas' ideas can be used to address issues such as colonialism, inequality, and the marginalization of certain groups. The authors also discuss how Habermas' theories can contribute to the development of more inclusive and democratic societies in non-Western contexts.

Response to Provincialism:
In the second edition of the book, the authors address the charge of provincialism leveled against Habermas' theory. They argue that Habermas' approach is not inherently Western or Eurocentric but rather seeks to transcend cultural boundaries and promote a universal understanding of democratic values and human rights. The authors highlight the importance of recognizing the diversity of non-Western cultures and traditions while still striving for a common understanding of democratic principles.

Conclusion:
This book provides a valuable resource for scholars and students interested in political theory, global justice, international affairs, philosophy, and critical theory. It offers a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of Habermas' political theory from critical perspectives outside its Western locus. By engaging with a range of non-Western contexts and themes, the book demonstrates the relevance and adaptability of Habermas' ideas to diverse societies and cultures. The addition of chapters addressing the charge of provincialism further strengthens the book's contribution to the ongoing debate about the theory's applicability and relevance in the contemporary world.

Weight: 376g
Dimension: 215 x 140 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032250304
Edition number: 2 ed