Habermas was for me, prior to this text, a name without any corresponding understanding of his philosophical contribution. This work is actually a compilation of introductions that were originally written for a volume of his most important papers. As a result, it’s professional philosophy—there’s no effort to lighten the text for a lay reader.
His most important work revolves around the concept of communicative reason. Roughly, he means that reason’s primary purpose is not understanding but dialogue between human beings. He strongly argues against a sense of reason as transcendental—or in any way understanding a moral or metaphysical world that exists apart from the dawn of the human species.
His impetus is to continue the Enlightenment project of free and open dialogue and participation in the public square against both neo-conservative and postmodern critics. It could be argued that Habermas seeks a middle way between neo-conservatives who see a largely immutable modern liberal society grounded in a fully rational account and post-modernists who see reason as simply a tool wielded by power seeking individuals.
Of course, his project is much more extensive, but this book does serve as a suitable introduction for those who have some philosophical background. Lay readers would probably do better with the Very Short series which also has an introduction to his thought.
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet or computer – no Kindle device required. Learn more
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera, scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Flip to back Flip to front
Follow the Author
Something went wrong. Please try your request again later.
Popular titles by this author
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
About the author
Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Top reviews from other countries
Aran Joseph Canes
A Good Introduction for those with a Philosophical Background
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on July 20, 2022Verified Purchase
