Description
Book SynopsisThe terms 'global' and 'civil society' have both become part of the contemporary political lexicon. In this important new book, Mary Kaldor argues that this is no coincidence and that the reinvention of civil society has to be understood in the context of globalization.
Trade Review"Highly recommended."
Choice
"A powerfully persuasive book ... a must-read for students of politics, practitioners, activists, journalists, and anyone engaged in public activism."
Perspectives on Political Science
"In Global Civil Society, [Kaldor] is particularly concerned with the importance of nonstate actors in international relations, working within the constructivist tradition of international relations from an activist perspective. When she examines the theoretical roots and contemporary development of global civil society, she is hardlt a disinterested observer. ...In short, in assessing Global Civil Society, it is important to recognize both Kaldor's intellectual honesty and her explicit political commitments. She examines literature and events to develop an arguement about how to promote peace in the future. Thus, this book is a theoretical and political treatise, informed by Kaldor's reading of theory and history and also by her experience as an activist. ...Global Civil Society is a short, sharp read that is organized around a clear argument. It should be a welcome addition to the bookshelves of scholars interested in peace, war, and global civil society."
David S. Meyer, University of California, Irvine
Table of ContentsPreface.
Abbreviations.
Chapter 1: Five Meanings of Global Civil Society.
Chapter 2: The Discourse of Civil Society.
Chapter 3: The Ideas of 1989: The Origins of the Concept of Global Civil Society.
Chapter 4: Social Movements, NGOs and Networks.
Chapter 5: Globalization, the State and War.
Chapter 6: September 11: The Return of the ‘Outside’?.
Notes.
Index
