Political Philosophy In the Moment: Narratives of Freedom from Plato to Arendt

Political Philosophy In the Moment explores the political power of narrative, presenting the history of political philosophy and Hannah Arendts alternative aesthetic form of politics through eleven short stories. It reveals how the four main traditions promise truth but deny freedom, and how thinkers like Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, and Heidegger influenced Arendts view. The book is accessible, comprehensible, and welcoming, making it ideal for students of contemporary political theory and anyone interested in political thought.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2019
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Political Philosophy In the Moment delves into the profound influence of narrative on our political existence, unveiling the power of storytelling to shape our ability to be present. Through a series of eleven captivating short stories, Jim Josefson presents a comprehensive history of political philosophy, complemented by Hannah Arendt's alternative vision of an aesthetic form of politics. In the early chapters, Josefson explores the four primary traditions of political thought—Platonism, Aristotelianism, liberalism, and historicism—while highlighting their promise of truth yet restricting our genuine freedom. He then examines the alternative narratives offered by influential thinkers such as Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, and Heidegger, which profoundly shaped Arendt's perspective. The concluding chapters chart Arendt's journey back to the Moment, emphasizing the freedom to read and tell a more comprehensive story about the complexities and contradictions that exist in the world.

Written in an accessible and engaging style, Political Philosophy In the Moment is a captivating read for students of contemporary political theory and anyone interested in political thought. It serves as a gateway into the world of political philosophy, offering a rich tapestry of ideas and perspectives that will inspire and provoke thought.

Weight: 286g
Dimension: 226 x 154 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367199166