Political political theory: Essays on institutions (original) (raw)

2016, Contemporary Political Theory

Recently political theorists and philosophers have taken a greater interest in theorising real-world politics. Practice-dependent methods, political realism, and non-ideal theory exemplify and contribute to this shift. In this context, Jeremy Waldron's Political Political Theory can be considered as another move in these debates. In a similar vein to realists, Waldron argues that too much time is being devoted to theorising justice. In the everyday practice of politics, justice or any other ethical or political aim remains the object of disagreement. Consequently, Waldron argues, 'we need to inquire into the structures that are to house and redefine our disputes and the processes that are to regulate the way we resolve them' (p. 5). More specifically, political theorists should explore 'the foundations' of modern democratic institutions and constitutional principles, such as political parties and federalism. In this book, which consists of previously published essays edited for this collection and three completely new chapters, Waldron's insightful reflections uncover many nuances in principles often taken for granted in designing political institutions. The book consists of three parts. The first part is the introductory chapter, which sets the theoretical stage for the rest of the collection. Waldron's point of departure is that political theory should take seriously that disagreement about many concepts, such as justice and freedom, is the reason for politics. Political institutions and constitutional principles are the real-world normative tools to address such disagreements. Because institutions are real-world constructs rather than abstract entities, this has the methodological implication that political philosophy should take into account empirical research on their real-world consequences. The work of the philosopher should not, or at least not solely, assess institutions based on a particular conception of justice, liberty, or another aim. Waldron adds that analytical political theorists 'must reflect also on the deeper layers of dignitarian value' (p. 9), such as respect and recognition. These values