The Critical Theory of Axel Honneth

The Critical Theory of Axel Honneth provides a comprehensive study of the work of Axel Honneth, tracing the theoretical trajectory from his earliest writings on philosophical anthropology to the development of a theory of recognition. The book is unique in the field by offering a critical reconstruc [...]
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The Critical Theory of Axel Honneth provides a comprehensive study of the work of Axel Honneth, tracing the theoretical trajectory from his earliest writings on philosophical anthropology to the development of a theory of recognition. The book is unique in the field by offering a critical reconstruction of Honneth's work in relation the key themes of intersubjectivity, power, and critique. The central argument of the book is that Honneth's early work provides important insights for the reconstruction of the normative project of critical theory and the articulation of a conceptual framework for analyzing social relations of power and domination. However, the contention made is that these aims are not fully realized in Honneth's more mature project and that central insights from his early work recede as his project develops. The study seeks to demonstrate, however, that the basis for an alternative theory of intersubjectivity that can account for both an adequate theory of power and normative forms of subject-formation can be immanently reconstructed from within Honneth's work.By contextualizing Honneth's project in relation to the theoretical influences upon his work, the volume provides an excellent entry point and critical study that will be of interest to a variety of readers, including students and academic alike.