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Ancient Greek Democracy and American Republicanism explores the archetype of Prometheus in political theory, representing faith in human agency and self-governance. It borrows perspectives from Hannah Arendt and Christopher Lasch, tracing Promethean elements in the philosophy behind the ancient Athenian polis as well as in early American republican thought, which laid the foundations of the American Revolution and also of the Populist Movement during the nineteenth century.
The second principle of Prometheanism revolves around a 'tragic vision' of life and human nature; Prometheanism questions optimistic ideologies advocating human perfection or endless improvement. Ancient Greek democracy and early American republicanism maintain a balanced - else called melioristic - approach to human agency and potential. They value the importance of action, without promising endless betterment and assured happiness. Finally, cultural heritage and identity are seen as crucial for participatory (Promethean) politics. With this in mind, the book criticises mainstream liberal trends and questions the ardent optimism and cultural nihilism of the republicanism of the French Revolution.
Contents
Acknowledgements
Introduction: Delving into Promethean Politics: Uncovering Ancient Greek Roots and American Traditions
1. Prometheanism and Action: Beyond Hannah Arendt
2. Anti-Prometheanism: Political Pessimism and Liberal Optimism
3. Dispensing the Leviathan: Ethical Memory and Parrhesia
4. The French and the American Revolutions: 'No Voice but an Echo'.
5. American Populism: The 'Lost Promethean Treasure'
Epilogue: Forging the Future: Promethean Principles in Modernity and Beyond
