The Political Thought of Jacques Rancière

Creating Equality

Todd May

• Publisher: EUP
• Year: 2008
• eBook ISBN: 9780748635337
• Edition: 1
• Topic: Philosophy
• Subtopic: Political Philosophy

Equality is not something that we must expect from state institutions. It is something that we must both presuppose and create through collective action. Todd May investigates in depth the philosophical grounds, ethical implications and practical consequences of the view of active equality. Much more than a commentary, his book is a powerful analysis of what politics means and how we can recover the project of political action.Jacques RanciereThis is the first single-authored book in any language devoted entirely to the thought of Jacques Rancière. It focuses on his central political idea that a democratic politics emerges from the presupposition of equality. Todd May examines and extends this presupposition, offering a framework for understanding it, placing it in the current political context, and showing how it challenges traditional political philosophy and opens up neglected political paths.May aims to show that Rancière's view offers both hope and perspective for those who seek to think about and engage in progressive political action.Key Features* offers a thorough discussion of Rancière's concept of equality* provides an ethical framework in which to ground his politics* shows why Rancière is crucial for political reflection today* both translated and untranslated works are referred to

Table of contents

• COVER
• Copyright
• Contents
• Acknowledgements
• 1. Passive Equality
• 2. Active Equality: Democratic Politics
• 3. The Historical Roots of Democratic Politics: Anarchism
• 4. The Normative Framework of Democratic Politics
• 5. Active Equality in Contemporary Politics
• Bibliography
• Index