Contemporary Political Concepts: A Critical Introduction

Research output: Book/ReportBookpeer-review

Abstract

The language of political debate and analysis has changed dramatically in recent years. Today, both academics and practitioners have largely abandoned the vocabulary of the left and replaced it with a set of concepts that structure debate and set the political agenda. Thus, the world economy is discussed in terms of globalisation instead of international capitalism.

Moreover, the apparently benign concepts of civil society, citizenship and stakeholder have replaced those of class and class conflict, poverty is about social exclusion rather than exploitation, and consumer choice and worker empowerment have replaced the pursuit of class interests. In today's political climate, socialism is seen as old-fashioned or utopian. In contrast, capitalism is seen as realistic, and the 'third way' is presented as the solution to all our ills.

This book explores the real issues behind these catchphrases of modern politics, explaining what they mean, and offering a critique of the ideology of which they are a part.
Original languageEnglish
PublisherPluto Press
Number of pages240
ISBN (Electronic)9780745317977, 9781849641159
ISBN (Print)9780745317960
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 20 Apr 2002

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