The review is published on The London School of Economics and Political Science website blog.
Review summary
Alison Scott–Baumann’s Paul Ricoeur: Empowering Education, Politics and Society employs Ricoeur’s philosophy to unpack contemporary universities’ struggles with polarisation and activism. Though short in form, this rich critical study illuminates how universities understand themselves and why fostering dialogue around disagreements and controversies can enable more inclusive, empowered academic communities, writes Torsten Janson.
More than a year has passed since Hamas’ horrific attack on 7 October 2023 and the beginning of Israel’s catastrophic assault on Gaza in response. As the conflict deepens and spreads throughout the region, so does the polarisation of debate around it, paradoxically both hampering and creating new openings for the discussion of the conflict. At this critical juncture, universities could play a crucial role – yet are fraught with incertitude and reluctance.