
Heterogeneities
Race, Gender, Class, Nation and State
Robert John Ackermann(Author)
University of Massachusetts Press
Published on 31. May 1996
Book
Paperback/Softback
248 pages
978-1-55849-014-7 (ISBN)
Description
In this work a known philosopher offers an analysis of the hidden assumptions that lie at the heart of contemporary social ideology. Robert John Ackermann argues that all social life is intrinsically heterogeneous and that such homogeneous constructs as race, gender, class, nation and state are necessarily artificial. In the course of his inquiry, he discusses what we mean when we invoke these terms and explores the intellectual implications and concrete consequences of their everyday use. Although Ackermann's approach is philosophical, his arguments are grounded in his personal experience - from encounters with the subtle workings of racism and sexism to active participation in local government. He urges his readers to draw on their own experiences to test the validity of his conclusions. In his view, only by breaking down the traditional distinction between private perception and public authority, ""subjective"" and ""objective"" knowledge, can the insights of philosophy prove useful in promoting meaningful social change. In a final chapter, Ackermann stresses the need to combine social theory with political practice. Against the advocates of universal rationalism on the one hand, and the champions of multiculturalism on the other, he makes the case for a genuinely democratic politics of inclusion.
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
Massachusetts
United States
Target group
College/higher education
Professional and scholarly
Illustrations
Illustrations
Dimensions
Height: 228 mm
Width: 152 mm
Thickness: 16 mm
Weight
333 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-55849-014-7 (9781558490147)
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Schweitzer Classification