Recognition Theory and Contemporary French Moral and Political Philosophy: Reopening the Dialogue

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The revival of recognition theory has brought new energy to critical theory. In general terms, recognition theory aims to critically evaluate social structures against a standard of social freedom identified with norms of interaction which are freely recognised by all parties. Until now, attention has primarily focused on the categories and forms of recognition theory. However, the influence of contemporary French theory upon the development of theories of recognition has not yet received the consideration it merits. This collection outlines the current state of recognition theory, studies the impact of French theory, and uses French thought to identity aspects of the recognitive process which are often overlooked. Exploring French accounts of agonistic identity construction, vulnerability, power, ethical obligation and reflexive theory construction, this book supports the intentions of critical theory with heightened attentiveness to oppression in all of its forms. -- .

Reviews

This volume may help to answer a charge, frequently levelled against the theory of recognition, namely that it is nothing more than a theory of minority rights or differentiated citizenship dressed up in fancy Hegelian costume.

"This collection will interest anyone involved in ongoing debates about the development of theories of recognition. Each chapter is of exemplary theoretical and rhetorical quality; collectively they constitute a valuable intervention across those areas of moral and political philosophy, social theory and anthropology that converge under this interdisciplinary banner."
(Jared Holley, Political Studies Review Volume 12, Issue 3, September 2014)

Author Bio

Miriam Bankovsky is Lecturer in Political Theory for the Politics program at La Trobe University in Melbourne, Australia. Alice Le Goff is Assistant Professor in Social Philosophy at Universit Paris Descartes (Paris 5).