Description
Book SynopsisIn this book, Professor Ramin Jahanbegloo elucidates the central concepts in the moral and political thought of Martin Luther King, Jr., bringing out the subtlety, potency, and universal importance of his concepts of Agape love and non-violence, the Beloved Community and revolution of values, and his view of the relation between justice and compassion in politics. King's political philosophy integrates the ethical, the moral and the spiritual into a political way of being that is not only best suited for the American society, but also for any society in quest of an inclusive democracy. Jahanbegloo's account of King's moral and political philosophy demands those of us confronted by the challenges of today's world to have a fresh look at the pragmatic and non-utopian thoughts of one of the prophetic voices of twentieth century.
Trade ReviewUndoubtedly, what the world needs more than ever is more of the invigorating influence of the ideas of Martin Luther King, Jr.
-- Noam Chomsky, MIT
Having written extensively about Mahatma Gandhi, Ramin Jahanbegloo turns his attention to Martin Luther King Jr. and doing so solidifies his reputation as a distinguished interpreter of the ethics of nonviolence. Several bridges are crossed that make this book distinct: an Iranian philosopher writing about an American icon, a secularist interpreting the ideas of a theologian, a Muslim writing about a Christian. An important and inspiring read that takes on special importance during these dark times of global authoritarian resurgence and democratic decline. -- Nader Hashemi, University of Denver
As is only to be expected Ramin Jahanbegloo has written an excellent book on Martin Luther King, discussing his background, contemporary America, and his influence outside it. Locating King in a historical and comparative context he brings out his strengths in a way that few have done before and offers the reader new insights. Non-violence as practised by King and others before and after him is the only alternative to the current obsession with violence. A book like this is timely and important and greatly to be welcomed. -- Bhikhu Parekh, Fellow of the British Academy and House of Lords
Table of ContentsForeword: By Richard J. Bernstein
Introduction: King, Our Contemporary
Chapter One: Becoming King
Chapter Two: Roots of Resistance: King and Henry David Thoreau
Chapter Three: An Elective Affinity: Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi
Chapter Four: King’s Philosophy of Agape Love and Justice
Chapter Five: In Search of the Beloved Community: King’s Vision of Democracy
Chapter Six: Violence or Nonviolence: Martin Luther King and Malcolm X
Conclusion: The Global King
Afterword: By Dipankar Gupta
