Power to the People: Teaching Political Philosophy in Skeptical Times

(Paperback)

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Power to the People examines the teaching of political philosophy in what is taken to be skeptical times. Author Avner de-Shalit encourages political philosophers to remain committed to the analytical achievements of political philosophy while also revising and improving the teachings of the discipline to be more in tune with the demands of democratic society. Using highly accessible language, de-Shalit argues that distinguishing political philosophy from politics is methodologically and normatively wrong; that political philosophy can empower its students; and that political philosophy should be democraticized. De-Shalit's radical and provocative theory will fascinate anyone involved in politics, philosophy, and education.

Reviews

What is the place of political philosophy in a democratic society How should political philosophy be taught Avner de-Shalits wise and provocative new book shows how political philosophy does not replace democratic politics but, instead, enhances it. Decrying both ivory tower isolation of contemporary scholars and the Platonic temptation to install philosophers as political kings, de-Shalit offers a vibrant new vision of the mutual dependence of political theory and democratic practice. His book helps us scholars and citizens alike to see how political philosophy helps democracy flourish. -- Rob Reich, Stanford University
Most political philosophers aim to improve the world (otherwise they'd be bankers or lawyers). But how can they improve the world in the classroom And how can they improve the world outside the classroom de-Shalit's excellent book provides answers to these questions. It should be essential reading for all graduate students and professors of political philosophy. -- Daniel Bell, Tsinghua University

Author Bio

Avner de-Shalit is a professor of political science and the Max Kampelman Chair of Democracy and Human Rights at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem.