Continuum Habermas: A Guide for the Perplexed (Guides for the Perplexed)

Continuum's "Guides for the Perplexed" are clear, concise and accessible introductions to thinkers, writers and subjects that students and readers can find especially challenging. Concentrating specifically on what it is that makes the subject difficult to fathom, these books explain and explore key themes and ideas, guiding the reader towards a thorough understanding of demanding material. Jurgen Habermas is one of the most important contemporary philosophers and theorists of society. The author of over forty works, including the seminal "Theory of Communicative Action", his work has ranged across critical theory, epistemology, ethics, aesthetics, the philosophy of science, citizenship and democracy, religion and psychoanalysis, forging new paradigms and engaging with other key thinkers. All students and teachers of contemporary Continental thought need to understand Habermas' major contributions to philosophy and critical theory. "Habermas: A Guide for the Perplexed" is the ideal starting point for anyone studying Habermas, and an invaluable companion text to any course of study that includes his work. It follows Habermas' critical and philosophical project through all four stages of its development - the philosophical anthropological; the historical materialist; the linguistic turn; deliberative democracy and the rule of law - building up a complete overview of his work, and offering close and incisive analysis throughout. All Habermas' major publications, including "The Theory of Communicative Action", are covered in detail. The book concludes with an assessment of Habermas' contribution to philosophy and critical theory.