Beyond Left and Right: The Future of Radical Politics (Series of Translations in Social Theory)

Author: (English) Anthony Giddens
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2003-12-01
Features: This book is the third volume of Giddens' "Trilogy of Historical Materialism" and is one of his representative works. In this book, Giddens adheres to his previous theoretical approach of overcoming the dualism of subjectivism and objectivism, proposing a meaningful and positive political and sociological radical political framework. He attempts to find a synthesis between the left and right, conservatism and radicalism, socialism and capitalism. The book is clearly articulated, arguing that contemporary Western society has entered a phase of reflective modernization, with the process of globalization accelerating. Neither the left nor the right factions in the political spectrum can provide comprehensive and reasonable explanations or effective solutions. Therefore, it is necessary to transcend the limitations of left-right thinking, integrate various theories, establish a new theoretical starting point, and develop a framework to address major issues facing contemporary Western society and the world as a whole. The book comprehensively elaborates on the author's series of theoretical concepts for transforming contemporary Western society and has significantly influenced debates worldwide about the future of social democracy. Target Audience: Researchers in political science, sociology, anthropology, and history, as well as university and college students and faculty in these disciplines, and government and party leaders at all levels.