Cosmopolitanisms: New Thinking and New Directions

In the face of contemporary global crises and social concerns, the ideas of cosmopolitanism are seen to offer strategies for survival. So what are the strengths of cosmopolitanism that make this optimism possible? What are the arguments against it? Can it really improve the human condition and create a better world?

Written by a leading expert in the field, Cosmopolitanisms explains the meaning, scope and importance of cosmopolitanism in today’s world. The book draws on an historical and cross-cultural approach that provides the reader with a clear survey of major theoretical approaches and the evidence on which they are based. Offering a critical approach to these leading theories, including those associated with Ulrich Beck, it explores the challenges and limitations of this movement versus other approaches of globalisation. Going beyond traditional Euro-centric visions and analyses, this text offers cutting edge explorations of the cultural and personal, as well as the moral and legal, dimensions of cosmopolitanism.

With concise explanations of different types of cosmopolitanism and clear guidance through existing literature in the area, this forward-thinking text explains key issues within the wider contexts of globalization. Robert J. Holton’s accessible writing style and easy-to-follow arguments will give a solid and comprehensive understanding of cosmopolitanism for all students of sociology, globalization and politics.