On Politics

In: Telos, Issue 125, p. 9-36

Abstract

Argues that the "modernist" concept of politics is coming to an end. Politics, defined as "the art of decision-making concerning the common good," determines the distinction between public & private. Political objectives are said to hinge on ever changing, but concrete, situations. Issues explored include the historical relationship between politics & democracy; today's focus on "depolitization"; & the need to reassert the "primacy of politics." It is contended that politics in the era of modernity has been increasingly threatened by hegemonic tendencies of economy, law, morality, & technology, which have spawned a generalized commodification. In addition, the notion of equality shifted from the political to the juridical; politics became linked to the natural equality of rights rather than the institution of democracy; & all social relations were positioned within the private sphere while politics was delegated to the domain of the state. It is concluded that politics is reappearing in the age of postmodernity from the bottom up through local autonomy, participatory democracy, & community life. J. Lindroth