The Problem of TrustThe problem of trust in social relationships was central to the emergence of the modern form of civil society and much discussed by social and political philosophers of the early modern period. Over the past few years, in response to the profound changes associated with postmodernity, trust has returned to the attention of political scientists, sociologists, economists, and public policy analysts. In this sequel to his widely admired book, The Idea of Civil Society, Adam Seligman analyzes trust as a fundamental issue of our present social relationships. Setting his discussion in historical and intellectual context, Seligman asks whether trust--which many contemporary critics, from Robert Putnam through Francis Fukuyama, identify as essential in creating a cohesive society--can continue to serve this vital role. |
Contents
THE PROBLEM OF TRUST | 11 |
Trust Role Segmentation and Modernity | 13 |
Agency Civility and the Paradox of Solidarity | 44 |
Trust and Generalized Exchange | 75 |
THE REPRESENTATION OF TRUST AND THE PRIVATE SPHERE | 101 |
Public and Private in Political Thought Rousseau Smith and Some Contemporaries | 103 |
The Individual the Rise of Conscience and the Private Sphere A Historical Interpretation of Agency and Strong Evaluations | 124 |
Spheres of Value and the Dilemma of Modernity | 147 |
Conclusion | 169 |
Notes | 177 |
207 | |
225 | |