Individualism and Citizenship: Some problems and possibilities

Abstract

This article begins with a critical review of the new right’s individualist notion of citizenship, as a prelude to a discussion about citizenship ideals and education based on alternative versions of the ‘active citizenship’ model. The relationship between self as agent and civic mindedness is explicated and the problems and possibilities of a ‘republican’ tradition of citizenship are then explored with reference to its adequacy in taking account of postmodern cultural experiences. Although postmodernist culture may be seen as posing a considerable threat to citizenship ideals, it is suggested that such features as the de-centred view of self and the aestheticised culture can be accommodated within liberal discourse in a way that retains liberal character ideals and a democratic vision of community. To illustrate this, the philosopher Rorty’ views on self and community are examined, and in particular the construction of the relationship between the romantic and pragmatic strands in his thinking. In reviewing the various criticisms of Rorty that focus on his alleged elitism and lack of coherence an attempt is made to show howcommitment to liberal citizenship ideals requires a sense of the contingency of one’ language of moral deliberation and an acceptance of cultural diversity. The final discussion focuses on the educational implications of Rorty’s thesis. Although wide open to criticism on several counts, his views on education stress the importance of social criticism and the development of a sense of community as well as opportunities for poeticising and self-creation. © 1992, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. All rights reserved.