The Structure of the Open Society
Social Ontology Meets Collective Ethics
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Product details:
- Publisher OUP USA
- Date of Publication 12 January 2026
- ISBN 9780197815151
- Binding Hardback
- No. of pages344 pages
- Size 241x168x28 mm
- Weight 644 g
- Language English 0
Categories
Short description:
How are we to live together in a diverse society? In a time of polarization, fragmentation, and inequality, the liberal answer to this question requires a new justification. Proposing a holist conception of the free and open society, The Structure of the Open Society defends the significance of institutions that foster freedom, equality, and autonomy.
MoreLong description:
How are we to live together in a diverse society? In a time of polarization, fragmentation, and inequality, the liberal answer to this question requires a new defense. Democratic institutions are under threat. Identity groups seeking recognition often encounter resistance. In response, The Structure of the Open Society defends the significance of institutions that foster freedom, equality, and autonomy. And he argues that this age of identity calls for an inclusive and open mentality.
Famously, Karl Popper identified holism as the enemy of the open society. It leads to tribal communities with credulous and close-minded members. But the holist ontology defended here reveals how irreducibly social structures can support the basic rights that lie at the heart of liberal democracy. Crucially, they need not impair, but can in fact enhance critical reflection, toleration and epistemic modesty, which are vital for the resilience of a liberal democracy.
To defend these ideals, Hindriks proposes that a society is a cluster of social structures. Their two building blocks are equilibria, which reflect the incentives people have, and rules, which give meaning to and govern their actions. In principle, social structures enable them to interact in mutually beneficial ways. Yet, they also constrain their behavior. To secure basic rights, an appropriate mix of constraints and enablements must be supported by a culture that recognizes their significance for a sustainable society.
Are social structures a threat to individual freedom? In this bold and wide-ranging book, Frank Hindriks compellingly argues that they need not be. Combining ontological holism with normative individualism, Hindriks offers an new and innovative framework for understanding social practices, social institutions, and collective agents -- while providing robust guidance for ensuring that these social phenomena do not undermine individual rights. This book is essential for anyone concerned with the nature of social reality or the foundations of political life.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Social Practices
Individual Autonomy, Identity, and Group Rights
Social Institutions
Collective Responsibility for Just Institutions
Collective Agents
Corporate Responsibilities and Rights
Conclusion
