Suchergebnisse

Social imaginaries in agendas of cohesion -- The active society as a paradigm of social governance -- Cohésion sociale and ambiguities of Republican solidarity -- Bürgergesellschaft and the crisis of the German social model -- Community cohesion against ethnic segregation -- The imaginary potential of social cohesion

Across Western Europe, 'social cohesion' is seen to be at risk, and its protection has become an important objective for social governance. Exploring the emergence of a politics of cohesion in France, Germany and the United Kingdom, this book draws attention to an unexplored connection: the coincidence between the cohesive society and the active society. It examines political agendas of cohésion sociale, Bürgergesellschaft and community cohesion and argues that, despite country-specific differences, the politics of cohesion yields similar political effects. Individuals and groups, no matter wh.

The working paper considers the political rhetoric of 'muscular liberalism'. Following David Cameron, 'muscular liberalism' is understood as a paradigm of assertive policy-making in lieu of 'state multiculturalism'. While this orientation has achieved some prominence, its origins as well as its political effects have not been convincingly explored. A 'stimulus-response model', which points towards the Muslim presence in European states as the trigger for the muscular stance, fails to capture the phenomenon. It is furthermore unclear in what relevant sense the requirements that muscular rhetoric levels towards Muslims can be said to qualify as 'liberal' or how the reference to tensions within the 'liberal tradition' would illuminate the muscular position. The purpose of the paper, then, is to work towards a definition that allows considering political functions and situational potentials, in particular the projection of a desired muscular identity. It draws on the mobilization against 'Sharia Courts' in the UK, and the attempt to curtail their operation with the Arbitration and Mediation (Equality) Services Bill, to clarify such potentials.

Across European societies, pluralism is experienced innew and challenging ways. Our understanding of what it means for societies to beaccepting of diversity has to therefore be revisited. This volume seeks to meet thischallenge with perspectives that consider new dynamics towards tolerance, intolerance and respect.

"With the ethnic, cultural and religious diversity that is a feature of European societies today, pluralism is experienced in new and challenging ways. In many places, an urban cosmopolitan mix sits side by side with group-based expressions of faith and culture. The debate about the types of 'acceptance' that these situations require tend to follow new patterns. Increasing openness and respect for some may rest upon a reinforced intolerance towards others. This complicates and challenges our understanding of what it means for societies to be accepting, tolerant or respectful of cultural diversity in its various forms. This volume seeks to meet this challenge with perspectives that consider new dynamics towards tolerance, intolerance and respect."--Publisher's website