Autonomy and Liberalism

Colburn, B. (2010) Autonomy and Liberalism. Series: Routledge studies in contemporary philosophy, 19. Routledge. ISBN 9780415875967

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Abstract

This book concerns the foundations and implications of a particular form of liberal political theory. Colburn argues that one should see liberalism as a political theory committed to the value of autonomy, understood as consisting in an agent deciding for oneself what is valuable and living life in accordance with that decision. Understanding liberalism this way offers solutions to various problems that beset liberal political theory, on various levels. On the theoretical level, Colburn claims that this position is the only defensible theory of liberalism in current circulation, arguing that other more dominant theories are either self-contradictory or unattractive on closer inspection. And on the practical level, Colburn draws out the substantive commitments of this position in educational, economic, and social policy. Hence, the study provides a blueprint for a radical liberal political agenda which will be of interest to philosophers and to politicians alike.

Item Type:Books
Status:Published
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Colburn, Professor Ben
Authors: Colburn, B.
Subjects:J Political Science > JC Political theory
B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BJ Ethics
College/School:College of Arts & Humanities > School of Humanities > Philosophy
Publisher:Routledge
ISBN:9780415875967
Copyright Holders:Routledge
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