Will Kymlicka is a leading theorist in political philosophy, exploring themes of liberalism, community, and culture. His work delves into the complex relationships between the nation-state, multiculturalism, and minority rights. Kymlicka focuses on how to balance individual freedoms with collective rights and identities in pluralistic societies. His influential writings aim to offer fresh perspectives on ethnic relations, nationalism, and questions of citizenship in a globalized world.
Using an innovative blend of political theory, international law, and studies on the sociological and geo-political foundations of minority rights, this landmark publication will set the debate on the likely future of the international politics of diversity.
This new edition of Will Kymlicka's best selling critical introduction to contemporary political theory has been fully revised to include many of the most significant developments in Anglo-American political philosophy in the last 11 years, particularly the new debates over issues of democratic citizenship and cultural pluralism. The book now includes two new chapters on citizenship theory and multiculturalism, in addition to updated chapters on utilitarianism, liberal egalitarianism, libertarianism, socialism, communitarianism, and feminism. The many thinkers discussed include G. A. Cohen, Ronald Dworkin, William Galston, Carol Gilligan, R. M. Hare, Chandran Kukathas, Catherine Mackinnon, David Miller, Philippe Van Parijs, Susan Okin, Robert Nozick, John Rawls, John Roemer, Michael Sandel, Charles Taylor, Michael Walzer, and Iris Young. Extended guides to further reading have been added at the end of each chapter, listing the most important books and articles on each school ofthought, as well as relevant journals and websites. Covering some of the most advanced contemporary thinking, Will Kymlicka writes in an engaging, accessible, and non-technical way to ensure the book is suitable for students approaching these difficult concepts for the first time. This second edition promises to build on the original edition's success as a key text in the teaching of modern political theory.
The book provides a nuanced perspective on ethnocultural politics in Canada, countering the notion of chaos with insights gained from past experiences. It highlights successful strategies for integrating immigrants and addressing Quebecois nationalism, emphasizing that these lessons are crucial for addressing ongoing challenges. By showcasing a more balanced view, it encourages readers to reconsider the complexities of multiculturalism and the potential for effective accommodation of diverse groups.
This study presents a liberal view about the nature and value of community and culture, and links it to more familiar views on individual rights and state neutrality. The author argues that liberalism when properly applied permits the legal constraints necessary to protect ethnic minorities.