In this book Jurgen Habermas addresses some of the most pressing social and political issues of our time: the consequences of the collapse of communist regimes in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union; the resurgence of nationalism and right-wing violence in Europe; and the prospects for a transformation of international relations and the building of a more just and peaceful world order.

Most of the book takes the form of an extended interview which covers a wide range of contemporary topics and events, from German unification to the Gulf War, from the limits of theory to the role of intellectuals. While Habermas draws on ideas developed in his more theoretical works, he states his views here with exceptional clarity and force.

The Past as Future will be of great interest not only to students of social and political theory, but to anyone concerned with the current state and future of Europe and the West.

About the Author
Jurgen Habermas is Professor at Johann Wolfgang Goethe University in Frankfurt.

Reviews
"Hohendahl does an excellent job of placing Habermas in the context of the political struggles taking place within Germany." Discourse and Society

"Concise and accessible ... Habermas's responses to recent and current world events represent an enlightening and formidable merging of theory and practice ... It is an ideal introduction to Habermas. The interviews are straightforward and lively." Australian Journal of International Affairs

Book Information
ISBN 9780745614540
Author Jurgen Habermas
Format Paperback
Page Count 192
Imprint Polity Press
Publisher John Wiley and Sons Ltd
Weight(grams) 268g
Dimensions(mm) 213mm * 125mm * 18mm