Habermas and the Other of Occidental Rationality: The Dichotomous Logic of Exclusive Inclusion

Mesbahian, Hossein

doi:10.22059/jop.2020.75976

Document Type : Scientific-research

Author

Hossein Mesbahian

Assistant Professor, Department of Philosophy, University of Tehran

https://doi.org/10.22059/jop.2020.75976

Abstract

This paper seeks to demonstrate how Habermas’ idea of the universality of modernity is driven by the unsubstantiated assumption that takes this notion to be founded on occidental rationality. In carrying out this task, I first reveal the inherent contradiction of a concept of rationality which seeks to establish itself as the basis of modernity, while at the same time declaring legitimate recognition of its other. Briefly stated, excluding non-Western occidental from the foundation of modernity belies the fundamental requirement of universality, namely the inclusion of the other. This encapsulates what I shall refer to as “The Dichotomous Logic of Exclusive Inclusion” which has engendered philosophical and historical criticisms in both non-Western and Western thought. In the second section of this paper, I shall argue that it is necessary for the “non-Western Other” to push itself away from the margins and to the forefront of the discussion of universality, in order to be recognized as fundamental to the development of a genuine notion of universality that is guided by the contribution of all cultures.

Keywords

Main Subjects

philosophy

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Habermas and the Other of Occidental Rationality: The Dichotomous Logic of Exclusive Inclusion

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Volume 17, Issue 2 - Serial Number 34March 2020Pages 145-165

Volume 17, Issue 2 - Serial Number 34
March 2020
Pages 145-165