Kant's Grounded Cosmopolitanism: Original Common Possession and the Right to Visit

Kant's practical philosophy is associated with two cosmopolitan visions: a universal moral community of rational agents and a political community of world citizens. Kant's Grounded Cosmopolitanism introduces a novel account of his global thinking, focused on a disjunctive community of earth dwellers in direct physical confrontation. It derives from this a set of constraints on cross-border interactions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 21 July 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Two distinct cosmopolitan visions are commonly linked to Kant's practical philosophy. Firstly, there is the ideal of a universal moral community comprised of rational agents who form a kingdom of ends, united by their shared humanity. Secondly, there is the vision of a politically united community of world citizens who share membership in a global polity. Kant's Grounded Cosmopolitanism presents a unique perspective on Kant's global thinking, which has largely been overlooked. This form of cosmopolitanism focuses on the normative implications of the fact that a multitude of corporeal agents coexist on the Earth's spherical surface. It does not concern itself with abstract notions of shared humanity or shared citizenship but rather with a disjunctive community of earth dwellers, namely embodied agents in direct physical confrontation with each other.

Kant's grounded cosmopolitanism is articulated in the Doctrine of Right and frames the question of how individuals relate to one another globally through their concurrent existence. From this, it derives a specific set of constraints on cross-border interactions. The Doctrine of Right emphasizes the importance of treating all individuals with respect and dignity, regardless of their nationality or location. It advocates for the establishment of international laws and institutions that promote cooperation, peace, and human rights. Kant's cosmopolitanism is grounded in the belief that humanity is interconnected and that individuals must recognize and respect the rights and dignity of others, regardless of their background or circumstances.

In conclusion, Kant's practical philosophy encompasses two cosmopolitan visions: one focused on a universal moral community and the other on a politically united community of world citizens. Kant's Grounded Cosmopolitanism introduces a novel perspective on his global thinking, emphasizing the importance of a disjunctive community of earth dwellers in direct physical confrontation. The Doctrine of Right provides a set of constraints on cross-border interactions that aim to promote respect, dignity, and cooperation among individuals and nations. Kant's cosmopolitanism is a call to action for individuals and nations to recognize their shared humanity and work towards a world that is peaceful, just, and inclusive for all.

Weight: 476g
Dimension: 242 x 163 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780192844040