Radical Universalism

Radical UniversalismA compelling philosophical exploration of the concept of universalism and its roleor lack thereofin contemporary politics. This accessible study challenges the prioritization of identity politics over universal equality, using Kant as a lens through which to understand our present moment. Winner of the 2024 Leipzig Book Award for European Understanding. The entire political spectrum of our day, from right to left, reflects the politics of identity.

A compelling philosophical exploration of the concept of universalism and its role—or lack thereof—in contemporary politics. This accessible study challenges the prioritization of identity politics over universal equality, using Kant as a lens through which to understand our present moment.

Winner of the 2024 Leipzig Book Award for European Understanding.

The entire political spectrum of our day, from right to left, reflects the politics of identity. The right speaks of blood and soil, of homeland; the left of gender and race. To the observant eye, the similarity between the holders of the two positions stands out as much as their animosity. And as to the purported humanism and universalism of the liberal center? It has shrunk to an empty husk. Far from recognizing and proclaiming a fundamental duty to humanity, contemporary liberalism now chiefly serves to protect the right of the individual citizen to turn a deaf ear to that call.