Making Space for Justice: Social Movements, Collective Imagination, and Political Hope

Progressive social movements have posed philosophical questions about the meaning of justice and how to meet its demands. Michele Moody-Adams argues that anyone concerned with justice must learn from social movements, which are wellsprings of moral inquiry and agents of social change. She explores what progressive social movements have shown about the nature of justice and what it takes to create space for it in the world. Successful movements have drawn on the transformative power of imagination, inspiring political hope and creating political institutions and social policies that can sustain it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 05 July 2022
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Progressive social movements have played a pivotal role in shaping social change throughout history, from the abolitionist movement of the nineteenth century to the Black Lives Matter movement of today. While these movements have been widely recognized for their political activism, it is less commonly acknowledged that they have also raised profound philosophical questions about the nature of justice and the means by which it can be achieved. In her book, "Making Space for Justice," Michele Moody-Adams argues that anyone interested in the theory or practice of justice must consider the lessons that can be drawn from social movements.

Drawing on a diverse range of compelling examples, Moody-Adams explores the nature of justice as well as the challenges and opportunities that arise in creating a more just world. She argues that progressive social movements serve as sources of moral inquiry and as agents of social change, offering valuable insights into the principles and practices that can promote justice.

One of the key themes of Moody-Adams's book is the importance of humane regard for others. She emphasizes that social justice demands a combination of compassionate concern and robust respect for the rights and dignity of all individuals. Successful social movements have been able to tap into the transformative power of imagination, inspiring individuals and communities to pursue justice and to create the political institutions and social policies that can sustain it.

Moody-Adams also highlights the role of political hope in driving social change. She argues that successful movements have been able to generate political hope by offering a vision of a better future and by inspiring individuals and communities to believe that they can contribute to building that future. This sense of hope can provide the motivation and energy needed to overcome obstacles and to pursue justice on a broader scale.

In conclusion, "Making Space for Justice" is a thought-provoking and insightful book that offers valuable insights into the nature of justice and the means by which it can be achieved. By drawing on the lessons of social movements, Moody-Adams provides a roadmap for individuals and communities seeking to promote justice and create a more just world. Her book is a must-read for anyone interested in political thought, social activism, and the pursuit of a more equitable and compassionate society.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 138 x 215 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231201377