Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: Although most critical theories of recognition begin with a model that relates individual identity development to social structures of group recognition, Nancy Fraser has recently proposed a model that begins from an external, social-scientific point of view, focusing specifically on groups that suffer from institutionalized status subordination. She attempts to demonstrate the advantage of this model by comparing it with the deficits of identity-based theories put forward by Axel Honneth and Charles Taylor. This paper argues that although Fraser’s general critical social theory yields important improvements over these competing models, the improvements are not in general due to the adoption of a status-based model of recognition.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: Two approaches to recognition dominate contemporary political theory. Both use Hegel’s standard for recognition, expressed as I = I, as the framework to set up their arguments. One approach specifies a set of subjective, psychological conditions that constitutes reciprocity of recognition among equals. Another approach reformulates recognition as a matter of status so that parity of the objective, material prerequisites for mutual recognition would be achieved. Because both theories overlook the processes of recognition that eventuate in Hegel’s standard, neither captures the phenomenon of recognition that Hegel depicts as inherently two-dimensional. Drawing on Fanon’s critical appropriation of Hegel’s problematic of recognition, I show that the subjective and objective dimensions of recognition emerge from political agency which is developed through asymmetrical power relations, I > I. For those who are least recognized, acquiring political agency is paramount.

Publication Type: Proceeding