Since September 11th, we frequently hear that political differences should be put aside: the real struggle is between good and evil. What does this mean for political and social life? Is there a 'Third Way' beyond left and right, and if so, should we fear or welcome it?
This thought-provoking book by Chantal Mouffe, a globally recognized political author, presents a timely account of the current state of democracy, affording readers the most relevant and up-to-date information.
Arguing that liberal 'third way thinking' ignores fundamental, conflicting aspects of human nature, Mouffe states that, far from expanding democracy, globalization is undermining the combative and radical heart of democratic life.
Going back first to Aristotle, she identifies the historical origins of the political and reflects on the Enlightenment, and the social contract, arguing that in spite of its good intentions, it levelled the radical core of political life.
Contemporary examples, including the Iraq war, racism and the rise of the far right, are used to illustrate and support her theory that far from combating extremism, the quest for consensus politics undermines the ability to challenge it. These case studies are also highly effective points of reference for student revision.
On the Political is a stimulating argument about the future of politics and addresses the most fundamental aspects of democracy that will aid further study.
Introduction One, Politics and the Political Two, Beyond the Adversarial Model? Three, Current Challenges to the Post-political Vision Four, Which World Order: Cosmopolitan or Multipolar? Five, Conclusion Six, Notes, Index
Biography
Chantal Mouffe is Professor of Political Theory at the Centre of the study of Democracy at the University of Westminster. She is the author of several books including the Democratic Paradox, and with Ernesto Laclau, Hegemony and socialist strategy: towards a radical democratic politics.
'Clear, direct and accessible...Mouffe represents a position that every serious student of of contemporary political thought must acknowledge and come to terms.' - The Philosophers' Magazine
'An excellent book. It is very clear, straight to the point and with a minimum amount of jargon. Its succinctness, clarity and contemporary relevance should ensure its success.' - Donald Sassoon, Queen Mary and Westfield College
'Carries a clear, relevant and provocative message. It is likely to stir up an important debate.' - Jacob Torfing, Roskilde University'On the Political is a thought-provoking book tackling urgent domestic and international political problems trhough a disputatious engagement with various contemporary domestic theory. Mouffe succeeds in presenting these problems and disputes in an accessible language.' - Environment and Planning D: Society and Space
