The Political Theory Of Global Citizenship

The book provides a comprehensive overview of the meaning of cosmopolitanism, and world citizenship, in the history of western political thought, and in the evolution of international politics since 1500. It also discusses recent developments in international politics and transnational protest.

In the context of increasing globalization, and a shared, endangered environment, global citizenship is firmly on the political agenda. Activists claim to be global citizens; teachers discuss education for global citizenship and political theorists debate whether the concept is coherent. In international politics, recent developments in international law and the erosion of state sovereignty have made it more plausible to think of a world community of individuals. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the meaning of cosmopolitanism, and world citizenship, in the history of western political thought, and in the evolution of international politics since 1500. Exploring both earlier political thought, recent theoretical literature, and current debates, the book also discusses recent developments in international politics and transnational protest. It should be of interest to those specializing in political theory, international relations, peace/conflict studies; and also to those already acting as global citizens. Review: April Carter seeks to trace the historical evolution of the concept and outline its current manifestations in world politics, as well as explore its philosophical foundations and challenges. Divided into three parts, this ambitious book militates against coherent summarization as its engages an extraordinarily wide range of issues, ideas, and practices.. -Catherine Lu, McGill University