Performing Political Theory: Pedagogy in Modern Political Theory

This book explores the performative aspect of influential thinkers in modern Western political thought, using case studies of Machiavelli, Mill, and Nietzsche to demonstrate how their writing shaped political attitudes and behaviors. By drawing on lessons from literary criticism, it aims to help contemporary academic teachers engage students in understanding the performative nature of political theorizing.

Format: Hardback
Length: 121 pages
Publication date: 09 February 2018
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This captivating book delves into the profound and multifaceted role of influential thinkers in the history of modern Western political thought. Through a series of captivating case studies, it explores the performative nature of these intellectual giants as they saw their writing as an exercise in pedagogy aimed at cultivating a new breed of political followers. Figures such as Machiavelli, Mill, and Nietzsche, renowned for their classic works in political theory, such as "The Prince," "On Liberty," and "Genealogy of Morals," wrote not merely to impart knowledge but to fundamentally transform the way their readers approached politics. These thinkers became performative through their written words, and contemporary academic teachers can harness this power to great pedagogical effect, helping students grasp the essence of political theorizing.

In this enlightening exploration, John Uhr unearths neglected or forgotten lessons on performative writing from the esteemed masters of literary criticism, including Lord Shaftesbury, R. G. Collingwood, and John Dewey. These scholars offer valuable insights that can empower those teaching the history of modern political thought to enable students to fully comprehend the performative aspects of politics enacted by the modernizing thinkers of Machiavelli, Mill, and Nietzsche.

By examining the writing strategies and techniques employed by these influential thinkers, the book provides valuable guidance for educators seeking to engage their students in a deeper understanding of political thought. It encourages teachers to adopt a more dynamic and interactive approach, employing performance-based activities and discussions to bring the study of politics to life. Through this approach, students can develop a critical perspective on the political world and gain the skills necessary to engage meaningfully in contemporary political discourse.

Moreover, the book offers a rich tapestry of historical context, providing a deeper appreciation for the social, cultural, and intellectual milieu in which these thinkers operated. It sheds light on the political, social, and intellectual currents that shaped their ideas and influenced the course of Western political thought. By exploring the performative nature of their writing, students can gain a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between ideas, power, and the public sphere, and how these factors have shaped the modern world.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of modern Western political thought, as well as for educators seeking to enhance their teaching methodologies. It offers a valuable perspective on the performative role of influential thinkers and provides practical insights and strategies for engaging students in a deeper understanding of political theory. By embracing the power of performative writing, educators can help their students become critical thinkers, engaged citizens, and lifelong learners.

Weight: 296g
Dimension: 157 x 219 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811079979
Edition number: 1st ed. 2018