New Books in Political Science
Patrick Riordan, "Human Dignity and Liberal Politics: Catholic Possibilities for the Common Good" (Georgetown UP, 2023)
Feb 20, 2025
Patrick Riordan, a Senior Fellow in Political Philosophy at Campion Hall, Oxford, and a Jesuit priest, delves into the intersection of Catholic thought and liberal politics. He argues that embracing the common good can coexist with liberal ideals, contrary to some polarized views. The discussion explores St. Augustine's concepts of societal structures, the Church's role in advocating for human rights, and the relevance of Catholic principles in modern political and economic challenges. Riordan emphasizes dialogue across diverse beliefs to enrich democratic engagement.
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Quick takeaways
- Human dignity serves as a foundational principle in liberal politics, urging the integration of freedom and the common good for societal justice.
- The podcast outlines the common good as a multi-faceted concept, blending Aristotelian philosophy, Catholic social thought, and modern liberalism to foster collaboration.
Deep dives
The Value of Human Dignity
The podcast emphasizes the importance of human dignity in the context of liberal politics and Catholic thought. It argues that the concept of dignity is essential for a just society and should inform political and social structures. By integrating the Catholic intellectual tradition with liberal principles, the discussion highlights the necessity of recognizing individuals' freedom while promoting the common good. The dialogue also acknowledges that a balance must be struck between personal rights and communal responsibilities to ensure the flourishing of all members in society.
