Practice of Political Theory: Rorty and Continental Thought

Clayton Chin's book "The Practice of Political Theory" offers a critical reconstruction of Richard Rorty's work, arguing that his conception of "philosophy as cultural politics" provides new tools for resolving key foundational issues in political thought. Chin highlights the significance of Rorty's thought for contemporary political thinking, comparing his pragmatism to the ontological turn and placing him in dialogue with continental philosophy. The book addresses important questions in pragmatist scholarship and contemporary political thought, offering a response to the crisis of foundations in philosophy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2021
Publisher: Columbia University Press

In recent years, political thought has faced a profound crisis concerning its philosophical foundations. How can we justify the normative claims and assumptions that guide political decisions and social criticism? This is a question that has been the subject of intense debate among scholars.

In his book, "The Practice of Political Theory," Clayton Chin offers a critical reconstruction of the work of Richard Rorty, a prominent philosopher in the field. Chin's intervention is particularly timely as it responds to the current surge of methodological debates in political thought. He argues that Rorty provides us with unrecognized tools for resolving key foundational issues.

One of the central themes of Chin's book is the significance of Rorty's thought for contemporary political thinking. He presents Rorty's conception of "philosophy as cultural politics" as a resource for developing new models of sociopolitical criticism. By juxtaposing Rorty's pragmatism with the ontological turn, Chin illuminates them as alternative interventions in the current debate over the crisis of foundations in philosophy.

Chin places Rorty in dialogue with continental philosophy and those working within its legacy. He explores both important questions in pragmatist scholarship and central issues in contemporary political thought. "The Practice of Political Theory" is an important response to the vexed questions of justification and pluralism.

Through his meticulous analysis and insightful arguments, Chin demonstrates the relevance of Rorty's thought for our understanding of politics and society. He offers a fresh perspective on the challenges we face today and provides us with valuable tools for navigating the complex terrain of contemporary political discourse.

In conclusion, "The Practice of Political Theory" is a must-read for anyone interested in political thought and philosophy. Clayton Chin's book offers a critical reconstruction of Rorty's work and provides us with a valuable resource for resolving the crisis of foundations in political thought. It is a thought-provoking and insightful contribution to the field.

Weight: 452g
Dimension: 152 x 226 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231173995