Description
Book SynopsisSimone de Beauvoir and the Politics of Ambiguity is the first full-length study of Beauvoir''s political thinking. Best known as the author of The Second Sex, Beauvoir also wrote an array of other political and philosophical texts that are less well known. Together, these constitute an original contribution to political theory and philosophy. The book both locates Beauvoir in her own intellectual and political context and demonstrates her continuing significance. For, in her unique voice, Beauvoir still speaks to a range of pressing theoretical and practical questions concerning politics. These include the political value and dangers of liberal humanism; how oppressed groups become complicit in their own oppression; how social identities are perpetuated; the limits to rationalism and the place of emotions, such as the desire for revenge, in politics. In discussing Beauvoir''s reflections on these and other matters the book puts her ideas into conversation with those of many contemporar
Trade ReviewKruks has provided us with a book of exemplary clarity which opens our eyes to the continuing relevance of the neglected writings of a fine political philosopher and has hopefully opened the door to further analysis of Beauvoirs texts. * David Drake, History of Political Thought *
Simone de Beauvoir and the Politics of Ambiguity is valuable not only for its contribution of a missing link in contemporary Beauvoir scholarship, but also for the broader challenge it presents to political projects and philosophical considerations that fail to take seriously the contingency and ambiguity of situations and political action. * Hypatia Reviews Online *
... Simone de Beauvoir and the Politics of Ambiguity provides readers with an erudite yet accessible reading of the political theory of one of the great intellects of the twentieth century. ... It is well worth careful study and raises questions that will haunt the reader long after it is concluded. * Review of Politics *
... Sonia Kruks provides a highly readable, rich and concise account Beauvoir's ideas but also deftly navigates contemporary debates in political thinking. This book is a must read. * Canadian Journal of Political Science *
Table of ContentsList of abbreviations ; Introduction ; Chapter 1: Humanism After Posthumanism ; Chapter 2: Theorizing Oppression ; Chapter 3: Confronting Privilege ; Chapter 4: Dilemmas of Political Judgment ; Chapter 5: "Eye for Eye": The Question of Revenge ; Bibliography
