On the 'Meaning' of Politics

This book offers a concise yet provocative summary of Christos Yannaras long reflection on the meaning of politics. It critiques the Western (Christian) tradition of political thought and praxis and aims to recover and counterpose a Greco-Christian conception and practice of politics based on communion, the ecclesia, truth as a collective and common contest, and an ontological vision of humans living in harmony with the ornamental order of the universe.

Format: Hardback
Length: 84 pages
Publication date: 03 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book is a concise yet thought-provoking exploration of Christos Yannaras profound reflection on the essence of politics. It offers invaluable clarification on Yannaras conception and understanding of politics, as well as his interpretation of its historical development within the Western and Eastern theological and civilizational traditions. The book critically examines the Western (Christian) tradition of political thought and praxis, specifically its individualistic epistemology, utilitarian political organization, obsession with rationalistic efficiency, and its religionized Christianity, which has given rise to destructive ideologies. Its primary objective is to reclaim and oppose a Greco-Christian conception and practice of politics, grounded in communion, the ecclesia, truth as a collective and common endeavor to discover, reveal, and manifest cosmic reality, and an ontological vision of humans living in harmony with the ornamental order of the universe. This thought-provoking meditation on the meaning of politics is of immense interest to both political theologians and political philosophers.

Introduction:
This book provides a concise yet provocative summation of Christos Yannaras long and profound reflection on the meaning of politics. It offers vital clarification on Yannaras conception and understanding of politics, as well as his interpretation of its historical development within the Western and Eastern theological and civilizational traditions.

Critique of Western (Christian) Tradition:
The book critically examines the Western (Christian) tradition of political thought and praxis. It highlights the individualistic epistemology that underpins this tradition, emphasizing the belief in the individual as the center of existence and knowledge. It also critiques the utilitarian political organization that prioritizes efficiency and pragmatism over moral and ethical considerations. Moreover, the book points out the obsession with rationalistic efficiency that often leads to a disregard for the complexities and nuances of human nature and societal dynamics.

Recovery and Counterposition of a Greco-Christian Conception and Practice of Politics:
In contrast to the Western tradition, the book advocates for a Greco-Christian conception and practice of politics. It emphasizes the importance of communion, the ecclesia, and truth as a collective and common endeavor to discover, reveal, and manifest cosmic reality. The book proposes an ontological vision of humans living in harmony with the ornamental order of the universe, recognizing the inherent interconnectedness of all things and the need for a harmonious relationship between humans and the natural world.

Foreword by Rowan Williams:
The book is preceded by a foreword by Rowan Williams, a renowned theologian and philosopher. In his foreword, Williams praises Yannaras scholarship and insights, highlighting the importance of his work in the field of political theology. He notes that Yannaras approach is highly original and significant, offering a fresh perspective on the meaning of politics that will be of interest to both political theologians and political philosophers.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book offers a valuable and thought-provoking exploration of the meaning of politics. It provides a critical examination of the Western (Christian) tradition of political thought and praxis, while advocating for a Greco-Christian conception and practice of politics grounded in communion, the ecclesia, truth, and an ontological vision of humans living in harmony with the universe. With a foreword by Rowan Williams, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in political theology and philosophy.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032493145