Rethinking Political Judgement: Arendt And Existentialism

Description

Uses 20th century existentialism to confront the challenge of political judgement after moral absolutism. Focuses on the works of Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Albert Camus and Hannah Arendt. Applies existentialism to two contemporary problems in political judgement: the problem of dirty hands and the challenge of transitional justice and reconciliation. Combines textual and conceptual analysis with a narrative approach to help the argument flow more smoothly. Political judgement in the history of political thought and the modern crisis -- Sartre and Beauvoir: the ambiguity of political judgement and the challenge of freedom and responsibility -- Camus and Arendt: confronting the ambiguity of political judgement and illuminating the limits of the world -- Political judgement and narrativity -- Facing up to the tragedy of political action: the problem of dirty hands -- Times of transition: reconciling with the tragic nature of political affairs -- Conclusion: reclaiming wonder at the world of political affairs.