The New Religious Intolerance: Overcoming the Politics of Fear in an Anxious Age

Author(s): Martha C. Nussbaum

SECONDHAND BOOKS | POLITICS

What impulse prompted some newspapers to attribute the murder of 77 Norwegians to Islamic extremists, until it became evident that a right-wing Norwegian terrorist was the perpetrator? Why did Switzerland, a country of four minarets, vote to ban those structures? How did a proposed Muslim cultural center in lower Manhattan ignite a fevered political debate across the United States? In "The New Religious Intolerance", Martha C. Nussbaum surveys such developments and identifies the fear behind these reactions. Drawing inspiration from philosophy, history, and literature, she suggests a route past this limiting response and toward a more equitable, imaginative, and free society. Fear, Nussbaum writes, is 'more narcissistic than other emotions.' Legitimate anxieties become distorted and displaced, driving laws and policies biased against those different from us. Overcoming intolerance requires consistent application of universal principles of respect for conscience. Just as important, it requires greater understanding. Nussbaum challenges us to embrace freedom of religious observance for all, extending to others what we demand for ourselves. She encourages us to expand our capacity for empathetic imagination by cultivating our curiosity, seeking friendship across religious lines, and establishing a consistent ethic of decency and civility. With this greater understanding and respect, Nussbaum argues, we can rise above the politics of fear and toward a more open and inclusive future.

2012. First edition. A fine copy in a fine d/w. This copy presents as new.

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With a palpable sense of moral urgency, Martha Nussbaum explores the pathology of the Islamophobia sweeping the West since 9/11. Her diagnosis amounts to a dire warning that the failure to overcome the fear of religious and cultural difference threatens the constitutional and ethical foundations of liberal democracy. -- Paul Mendes-Flohr, University of Chicago Divinity School Martha Nussbaum persuasively demonstrates that what we need to tackle the root causes of religious hatred is not only broad minds but also open hearts capable of compassion and imagination. A passionate and encouraging book! -- Heiner Bielefeldt, United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief

Martha C. Nussbaum is Ernst Freund Distinguished Service Professor of Law and Ethics at the University of Chicago.

General Fields

  • : 9780674065901
  • : Harvard University Press
  • : The Belknap Press
  • : 0.666
  • : March 2012
  • : 210mm X 140mm X 15mm
  • : United States
  • : books

Special Fields

  • : 304
  • : 201.5
  • : Hardback
  • : Martha C. Nussbaum