Political Thought of C.B. Macpherson: Contemporary Applications

C.B. Macpherson's critique of 'possessive individualism' and defense of liberal-democratic socialism are relevant to 21st century challenges, with a resurgence of interest in his works due to the rise of neoliberalism and the need for alternative societies.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 200 pages
\n Publication date: 11 October 2018
\n Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG
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Central to C.B. Macpherson's (1911-1987) thought is his critique of the culture of 'possessive individualism' and his defense of liberal-democratic socialism. This resurgence of interest in his works is in response to the rise of neoliberalism and the search for alternatives to societies dominated by capitalist markets. Macpherson's theories are explained and applied to 21st-century challenges.

Macpherson's critique of 'possessive individualism' aimed to challenge the dominant ideology of the time, which emphasized individual self-interest and personal gain. He argued that this culture of individualism had led to a disregard for the collective good and the erosion of social cohesion. Instead, Macpherson advocated for a liberal-democratic socialism that placed a strong emphasis on social welfare, collective responsibility, and the redistribution of wealth.

One of Macpherson's key ideas was the notion of "organic solidarity," which he defined as the sense of belonging and identity that arises from shared values, traditions, and experiences. He believed that organic solidarity could be cultivated through social institutions such as education, religion, and the family, which provided a sense of community and shared purpose.

Macpherson's defense of liberal-democratic socialism was rooted in his belief in the importance of social justice and equality. He argued that capitalism had created a hierarchical society in which a small elite controlled the means of production and distribution, leaving the majority of people marginalized and exploited. He believed that liberal-democratic socialism could provide a more equitable distribution of resources and a greater say in decision-making for workers and the poor.

Macpherson's theories have had a significant impact on social and political thought in the 21st century. His critique of 'possessive individualism' has been used to challenge the dominance of neoliberalism, which emphasizes individual freedom and self-interest at the expense of social welfare and collective responsibility. His defense of liberal-democratic socialism has been used to advocate for a more just and equitable society that prioritizes social welfare and collective well-being.

In conclusion, C.B. Macpherson's thought is a powerful and relevant contribution to the debate about the nature of society and the role of government in promoting social welfare and equality. His critique of 'possessive individualism' and his defense of liberal-democratic socialism offer valuable insights into 21st-century challenges and provide a framework for building a more just and equitable society.

\n Weight: 474g\n
Dimension: 205 x 149 x 12 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9783319949192\n
Edition number: 1st ed. 2019\n