Single Idea 22265

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / D. Ideologies / 7. Communitarianism / b. Against communitarianism]

Full Idea

Insofar as 'communitarian' is another name for majoritarianism, or for the idea that rights should rest on the values that predominate in any given community at any given time, it is not a view I would defend.

Gist of Idea

I can't defend the view that the majority values of a community are thereby right

Source

Michael J. Sandel (The Limits of Communitarianism [1998], 'Where')

Book Reference

Sandel,Michael J.: 'Public Philosophy: Essays' [Harvard 2005], p.252


A Reaction

I should hope not. You could soon end up as a good nazi if you follow that route. Sandel defends a critical view of community values (implying a role for philosophy?). The community good must be continually negotiated. Sounds fine to me.