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The Political Philosophies of Kant and Marx

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 November 2017

Howard Williams
Howard Williams*
Affiliation:
Cardiff University
*
Email: WilliamsH58@cardiff.ac.uk
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Abstract

Whilst acknowledging that there are several major differences in the approach which Kant and Marx take to political philosophy this article argues that there are also several common themes. These common themes of commitment to critique, freedom, equality, human betterment and cosmopolitanism are first highlighted. Subsequently the most marked contrasts in their approaches are examined and evaluated. Although Kant demonstrates greater political wisdom and a greater respect for law, Marx shows greater insight into social and political forces. Taken together Kant and Marx present an as yet unrealized, powerful programme for political and social improvement.

Keywords

KantMarxcritiquelibertyequalitycosmopolitanismhuman betterment
Type
Articles
Information
Kantian Review , Volume 22 , Special Issue 4: Special Issue on Kant and Marx , December 2017 , pp. 619 - 640
Copyright
© Kantian Review 2017 

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