Author: Michael Walzer
Publisher: Affiliated East-West
Year: 1994
Language: English
Pages: 124
ISBN/UPC (if available): 818593813X
Description
What does it mean to be an American?Five incisive essays explore and analyze the roles of civic virtue, pluralism, immigration and the politics of difference in shaping the American identity. It is a timely, forward-looking affirmation of the legacy of American pluralism.
If we hyphenated Americans (Irish-Americans, Italian-Americans, African Americans) are united by abstract ideals of citizenship and not by a common culture or heritage, then how does American society achieve cohesion?
At a time when divisiveness has become almost fashionable in American society, noted political scientist Michael walzer offers a clear and pragmatic explanation of the politics of difference, shedding light on what is needed for us to coexist in a society as uniquely heterogeneous as that of the United states of America.
Walzer provides a frame of reference to explore the abstract ideal of unity symbolized by the motto E pluribus unum (From many, one). He shows us how an understanding of the differences in heritage and culture can lead us to develop a form of coexistence that emphasizes the common interest while respecting difference.
Walker outlines a model for a stronger America rooted in political participation and public education with immigration as a continuous source of national renewal.
Contents
Introduction: the Politics of Difference
what Does It Mean To Be an American?
Pluralism: a Political Perspective
Civility and Civic Virtue in Contemporary America
Constitutional Rights and the Shape of Civil Society