The Politics of Identity: Liberal Political Theory and the Dilemmas of DifferenceISBN: 978-0-7456-1905-7
Paperback
224 pages
March 2004, Polity
Other Available Formats: Hardcover
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Kenny illustrates how debates over such concepts as identity,
difference, recognition and culture are intertwined with political
theorists’ characterizations of democracy, citizenship and
civil society. In an analysis that juxtaposes normative political
theory with the study of social movements and change, the author
challenges two widely held ideas about the relationship between
liberal democracy and culturally based groups. He questions the
assertion that there is no place for identity based political
argument in the public life of a democracy. And he challenges the
pluralist conviction that the re-emergence of collective identities
signals the demise of liberal culture and political thought.
Written in a clear and accessible style, The Politics of Identity is intended for students, scholars and general readers interested in contemporary political and social thought, political ideologies, and political culture.