Liberalism, Oppression, and Empowerment (Social Philosophy Today)

Whenever Liberalism is discussed, when the argument is made that Liberalism is rooted in the thought of certain philosophers [or is inconsistent with that of certain others], when the suggestion is made that Liberalism supports an intelligent environmentalism [or neglects environmental issues], and when the stance of Liberalism vis a vis Feminism is argued, it is necessary to remember that Liberalism has been associated with at least two distinct traditions, with quite dissimilar key teachings. The papers selected in this volume (from the tenth International Social Philosophy conference, held in Davidson, North Carolina, 1992) work toward understanding and a consensus concerning the meaning of the key concepts in Liberalism, and how the most pressing social issues may be constructively addressed. Contributions come from social philosophers, lawyers, political scientists and other social thinkers from North America, Europe, Asia, Israel, and Africa.