Hannah Arendt and Little Rock: A critical examination of her reflections on racism

Abstract

This paper inquires about a well-known article written by Hannah Arendt, named Reflections on Little Rock, published in Dissent Magazine in 1959. Its importance lies in the author's opinion about the events that took place in Little Rock, United States, as a consequence of the underline racial issue. Therefore, the purpose of this work will be to critically examine the analysis carried out by the author, crystallized in her reflections. Observing this task, firstly, a general approach will be made to the political and legal background that drives his work. Next, a schematic summary of the argumentative pillars that support the central thesis of the article will be done. Finally, based on the distinction between vita activa and vita contemplativa, we will make two critical observations on her reflections: the first, referring to the distinction between public and social spaces and, the second, to the judgment made by Arendt.