Full Description
This book examines the nature of the conflict between right-wing populism and multiculturalism: the West's defining conflict in the modern age. Drawing on a plethora of evidence from politics and culture in the West, it argues that these two positions, while antagonistic on the surface, are in fact similar: nationalism and multiculturalism are two names for one idea, the difference between them being simply a matter of geography; both outlooks have their roots in romanticism, sentimentalism, arrogance and a racist outlook. Rather than defend either approach, this volume urges us to consider the importance of roots and argues for greater consideration of what classical liberalism, socialism and feminism can do to break this impasse in our political thinking, with a concern for equality and concern for solidarity, regardless of cultural practice. As such it will appeal to social and political theorists with interests in political sociology and culture.
Contents
Preface 1. Introduction 2. Historical Background 3. The Power of the Past 4. The Virtue of Amnesia and the Vice of Difference 5. The Purpose of Art, Well, That's Really None of Our Business 6. The Ogre of Collectivism 7. Power and Emotions 8. On Moral Show-Off, and the Collateral Damage of Self-Abasement 9. Death Cult and the Reactionary Onslaught on Wit 10. 1789 and the Gestures of Condescension 11. Racism 12. A Liberal Way Out of Nationalist Ossification? 13. A Final Word
