Political philosopher Noelle McAfee discusses civil disobedience, challenging authority, and the intersection of philosophy and activism. Topics include political unconscious, influence of philosophers like Kristeva and Arendt, Thoreau's non-conformity, and steps for good political discourse.
Question authority and stand up against injustice in political engagement and civil disobedience.
Activism at the edges of society drives institutional change and fosters public engagement.
Deep dives
Political Engagement and Civil Disobedience
Professor Noelle McAfee, a philosopher, discusses the historical significance of political engagement and civil disobedience for philosophers, emphasizing the importance of questioning authority and standing up against injustice. McAfee's personal experience of being arrested at a university protest highlights the need to think critically about political actions and advocate for change.
The Role of Philosophy in Political Action
McAfee reflects on her philosophical journey and the pivotal moment that led her to pursue a PhD in philosophy, emphasizing the importance of questioning one's actions and engaging in meaningful political discourse. She emphasizes the value of philosophy in articulating human identity and promoting critical thinking in societal debates.
Peripheries Shaping Change in Society
Drawing on the theories of philosophers like Habermas, McAfee highlights the transformative role of social movements and peripheries in influencing mainstream political discourse. She explores how movements at the edges of society identify pressing issues, forcing institutional change and fostering public engagement. McAfee's insights underscore the vital contributions of activism and public discourse in shaping societal progress.
How should we engage with politics and protest? We explore the history of political engagement and ask what role civil disobedience plays in our lives today.
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