Recognition theory, critical social inquiry and multiculturalism

pp. 27-71

in: Bona Anna, Honneth and everyday intercultural (mis)recognition, Basingstoke, Palgrave Macmillan, 2018

Abstract

As the underpinnings of this intercultural work, recognition theory was briefly sketched in the introductory chapter. This chapter, beginning with the theoretical part of the book, now offers a more comprehensive treatment of the central features of Honneth's model. It begins with an initial focus on the theme of recognition, goes on to render the two distinct but inter-related premises that constitute Honneth's recognition theory and ends with a brief discussion regarding critique of Honneth relevant to the focus of this project. The key point of delving into recognition theory at this depth is to highlight its descriptive, explanatory and normative prospects for critical sociological inquiry, such as is offered in Part II of the book. These prospects are dealt with next, including an excursion into scholarly applications of Honneth's model in various social science fields. Finally, the chapter takes a more detailed look at the use of recognition theory in critical intercultural research. Specifically, it expands on the concepts of esteem recognition and contested value horizon, first glimpsed in Chap.  1, fleshing out their relevance for this cross-cultural project and for research into multiculturalism more generally.