Modern political conflict characteristically reflects and represents deep-seated but also unacknowledged and un-analyzed disagreements about what it means to be 'objective'. In defending this proposition, Peter J. Steinberger seeks to reaffirm the idea of rationalism in politics by examining important problems of public life explicitly in the light of established philosophical doctrine. The Politics of Objectivity invokes, thereby, an age-old, though now widely ignored, tradition of western thought according to which all political thinking is inevitably embedded in and underwritten by larger structures of metaphysical inquiry. Building on earlier studies of the idea of the state, and focusing on highly contested practices of objectivity in judgement, this book suggests that political conflict is an essentially discursive enterprise deeply implicated in the rational pursuit of theories about how things in the world really are.

An exploration of the inherent and often hidden logic of political conflict.

About the Author
Peter J. Steinberger is Robert H. and Blanche Day Ellis Professor of Political Science and Humanities at Reed College. His books include The Idea of the State (Cambridge University Press, 2004), The Concept of Political Judgment (1993) and Logic and Politics: Hegel's Philosophy of Right (1988). His articles have appeared in many scholarly journals including American Political Science Review, American Journal of Political Science, Journal of Politics, Political Theory and Political Studies as well as in such general interest publications as the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and Christian Science Monitor.

Reviews
'This book boldly addresses a complex world of political ideas and theories, working to unearth the metaphysical commitments that govern social and political existence. Engaging a universe of discourse that infuses the state, procedural justice, and political conflict, Steinberger generates a remarkable understanding of objectivity and its place in political life.' Lucas Swaine, Dartmouth College
'An ambitious and insightful book about the philosophic foundations of any adequate understanding of politics. A very impressive defense of an unfashionable approach to political philosophy.' Bernard Yack, Lerman-Neubauer Professor of Democracy, Brandeis University, Massachusetts



Book Information
ISBN 9781107109384
Author Peter J. Steinberger
Format Hardback
Page Count 287
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publisher Cambridge University Press
Weight(grams) 570g
Dimensions(mm) 235mm * 160mm * 20mm