Engaging Authority: Citizenship and Political Community

Engaging Authority explores how authority is entailed in different versions of citizenship and political community, bringing together scholars from anthropology, constitutional studies, cultural studies, politics, political theory, sociology, and philosophy. It begins with the premise that to describe or identify oneself as a citizen entails a particular relationship to authority, and explores different forms of this relationship across and beyond variations such as self-governing people, nation-states, popular sovereignty, and democratic citizenship.

Format: Hardback
Length: 254 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Engaging Authority: Citizenship and Political Community is a groundbreaking exploration of the complex relationship between authority and citizenship in diverse versions of political community. It delves into the profound questions of who or what claims authority in the name of a "people" and the impact of such claims. The book seeks to unravel the nature and scope of authority claimed, as well as the individuals or groups that are considered part of such a community. These critical inquiries have long been pursued by scholars across various disciplines, including anthropology, constitutional studies, cultural studies, politics, political theory, sociology, and philosophy. Engaging Authority brings together a diverse group of scholars from these fields in a collaborative effort to develop a comprehensive understanding of citizenship in political community.

The volume begins by establishing the fundamental premise that being a citizen entails a specific relationship to authority. Citizens are seen as part of a "political" community, where they are invoked and potentially involved in the governance process. The authors of this volume explore various forms of the citizens' relationship to authority within political community, extending beyond the traditional variations such as self-governing people, nation-states, popular sovereignty, and democratic citizenship.

Through a rich tapestry of scholarship, the authors examine the ways in which authority is exercised, invoked, and experienced by citizens. They explore the dynamics of power, legitimacy, and responsibility in different contexts, including historical, cultural, and contemporary settings. The book sheds light on the complexities of citizenship, challenging traditional notions of individual autonomy and collective identity. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the diverse perspectives and experiences of citizens within political community, as well as the role of institutions, policies, and social movements in shaping their relationships to authority.

Engaging Authority offers valuable insights into the dynamics of authority, citizenship, and political community. It provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the complexities of power, governance, and social change. By bringing together scholars from diverse disciplines, the book fosters interdisciplinary dialogue and promotes a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing contemporary societies. As we navigate the complex terrain of global politics and social transformation, this book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and activists seeking to engage with authority.

Weight: 562g
Dimension: 229 x 160 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538159101