Journal Article

Political discourses and plurality: reflections to restore confidence in politics

Diaz, Jose Francisco Jimenez

2012

Overview

This paper has two goals. On the one hand, discusses the concept of politics that emanates from the thought of Hannah Arendt. On the other hand, it reflects on the possibilities offered by this concept to the present crisis of politics. This wide crisis questions the meaning of politics, generates a growing public distrust and loss of institutional legitimacy. Thus, this article assumes the following hypothesis: Arendt's reflection allows restore confidence in politics, because she thinks in an enthusiastic conception of public space and/or common world, which citizens have generate and share. This public space is characterized by the plurality of the community, the contingency of human affairs, as well as the need of public discourses that contribute to the expression and prudent dialogues among citizens. For Arendt, citizens only can live in freedom if they participate in the public sphere and are aware of the uncertainties associated with their ideas, values and political judgments. So, citizens should incorporate prudential judgments in their political action, should prepare to listen to diverse public discourses and create common bonds among them. In light of this reflection, we conclude considering diverse alternatives to restore confidence in politics in the public space of contemporary democracies. Adapted from the source document.

• Subject: Arendt, Hannah / Democracy / Freedom / Legitimacy / Political Action / Political Participation / Public Space / Public Sphere / Trust