Bonnie Honig states that difference is “a problem for
identity, not one of its adjectives” (258). Honig wants ‘difference’ to become a more complex political
term that encompasses, not only the surface identity of citizens only
confirming their diversity, but also “the inescapability of conflict and the
ineradicability of resistance to the political and moral projects of ordering
subjects, institutions, and values” (258). Democratic theory is no longer only responsible for finding
and identifying the proper ways to organize people in successful democratic
societies, but must respond to the vibrant changes and conflicts in modern
society and redefine how political structures should handle and evolve with the
changes. Honig states that democratic theory has previously allowed for the
private realm of the home, which is free from the conflicts of politics and
difference, allowing for a secure identity. Difference does not allow for a
retreat from conflict or an identity outside of society, but requires each
person to view themselves in relation to others and what is going on around
them. Democratic theory should respond to this by requiring participation, as
people’s identities are no longer disengaged from society.
I really like the flow of your analysis. You begin with a passage from Honig's piece that addresses identity. As mentioned, identity doesn't correlate to solely one person, one group, etc. Identity is difference -- difference from others. These differences might be explicit or implicit but they should all be accepted. I think that difference should be acknowledged and if democratic theory is focused on the people, it should acknowledge difference.
ReplyDelete