Powers of Distinction: On Religion and Modernity

Nancy Levene's book explores the dualisms of opposition and identity that lead to social and personal dead ends, and reveals a hidden dualism of mutual relation that liberates thinking and politics and renews modernity's most innovative ideals. She argues that modernity encompasses Abraham's call to give up tribal belonging for covenantal relation and bequeaths the political work of constituting collectives with a critique of all that divides self from other.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 304 pages
\n Publication date: 06 December 2017
\n Publisher: The University of Chicago Press
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In her groundbreaking work, philosopher of religion Nancy Levene delves into the very essence of modernity and religion. She argues that at the core of their functioning, there exist dualisms of opposition and identity, which ultimately lead to social and personal stagnation. However, alongside these prevailing dualisms, there exists a hidden dualism of mutual relation, which holds the key to unlocking a more fulfilling and meaningful existence. Levene skillfully uncovers this lost distinction between dualistic systems, revealing how it can liberate thinking and politics and revitalize modernity's most innovative ideals, such as democracy, criticism, and interpretation.

Through a comprehensive examination of readings from Abraham to the present, Levene reclaims this distinction, demonstrating its profound impact on our understanding of the world. She shows how it empowers us to transcend tribal affiliations and embrace covenantal relations, thereby fostering a sense of unity and interconnectedness.

Modernity, as Levene argues, encompasses Abraham's call, and it is through this lens that we can understand modernity as an ethical claim about our world. She proposes a philosophy of the powers of distinction, which aims to include rather than divide, recognizing the inherent value and diversity of all individuals and communities.

Levene's work is a testament to her intellectual prowess and her commitment to exploring the boundaries of human thought and experience. By offering a fresh perspective on modernity, she invites us to reevaluate our beliefs and values, and to strive for a more inclusive and harmonious society. Through her profound insights and innovative thinking, Levene has made a significant contribution to the field of philosophy, and her work will continue to inspire and challenge us for generations to come.

\n Weight: 444g\n
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 16 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780226507538\n \n