Philosophy Colloquium: Elisabeth Widmer

The Syracuse University Department of Philosophy is excited to welcome Dr. Elisabeth Widmer (London School of Economics). Dr. Widmer will deliver a talk entitled, “Kant’s Republican Account of Citizenship.”

Abstract:

One of the major challenges in contemporary efforts to revive Kant as a neo-republican lies in his conception of citizenship. Whereas neo-republicans have made substantial efforts to distance themselves from the traditional view that restricted voting rights to mainstream white men, Kant’s distinction between “active” and “passive” citizens still reflects aspects of this traditional perspective. Without dismissing the sexist and classist stereotypes involved, I argue that Kant’s notion of citizenship still provides a valuable framework for understanding citizens as a driving force in the promotion of non-domination. By placing his concept of citizenship within the context of his broader republican project, I aim to show that Kant is primarily concerned with a republic governed by laws that serve the public interest. I argue that this focus explains why Kant takes issue with the moral character of citizens and their capacity to critically engage with politics and actively “contest” dominating powers—a concern he shares with neo-republicans.