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Abstract

This article explores the normative dimensions of a growing political focus upon the grievances of the white working class. It asks whether these can be considered as forms of recognition claim, rather than framed simply as expressions of resentment. I assess the character of three different forms of ‘recognition’ that are invoked in the rhetoric which this group has attracted—recognition as (i) liberal-egalitarian restitution; (ii) political inclusion; and (iii) cultural politics. And I observe the difficulties and dangers of pursuing the third of these strategies, while pointing to the potential significance for liberals of the first two. I conclude by alluding to the difficulties that the political theory of recognition faces from the proliferation of claims to recognition among groups in contemporary democratic society.

Keywords

recognition white working class political theory multiculturalism

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The Political Theory of Recognition: The Case of the ‘White Working Class’

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Keywords

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