Cosmopolitanism and Its Discontents

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Edited by Ward (Baylor Univ.), this volume provides a diverse, erudite collection of 14 essays on aspects of cosmopolitanism in Western political thought throughout history. Perspectives on the importance of this mode of thinking from the Roman Republic to the modern EU are provided. Given the increased criticism of cosmopolitanism in contemporary politics (in some cases even its rejection), as witnessed in both the UK Brexit debate and Trump’s US policy discourse, the value of a "cosmopolitan ... worldview" is shown to be deserving of reevaluation. The volume touches on global issues related to contemporary citizenship, and readers may conclude that a shared international mission can best be attained by looking to the inherited tradition. . . The chapters on Cicero (first century BCE) and Althusius (1557–1638) are exemplary. . . the book provides a useful survey and encourages deeper exploration—even "conversation"—between the advocates and the critics of cosmopolitanism. Summing Up: Recommended. Graduate students, faculty, and professionals.

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«“This important and timely work provides a philosophical analysis of the causes and conditions that led to nationalist movements in an era of globalism and cosmopolitanism. The contributors are second to none, and provide a range of perspectives that makes this volume indispensable for our times.”»

«“Cosmopolitanism and Its Discontents is a richly diverse collection of meditations on and analyses of traditional and contemporary conceptions of cosmopolitanism in its virtues and its vices. This volume is very much the kind of deepening that is needed for today’s ongoing, fraught dialectic between globalism and particularism.”»

«“Cosmopolitanism and Its Discontents is a lively and intelligent array of essays on both the fact and the philosophy of cosmopolitanism. Readers will enjoy the view from a surprising number of aspects and will be impressed with the arguments and unsuspected depths they encounter.”»