Taylor’s Critique of Procedural Liberalism and Modern Practical Rationality

Abstract

This article examines Charles Taylor’s critique of the model of procedural liberalism and the modern conception of practical rationality. The starting point is that Taylor’s critique is based on contributions of the substantive philosophical tradition, which makes possible an alternative liberalism project different from procedural liberalism. To prove this point of view, in first place, it presents Taylor’s approach to the debate between alternative liberalism and procedural liberalism. Secondly, it exposes the conception of practical rationality suggested by Taylor in his attempt to justify alternative liberalism. To conclude, it affirms that Taylor’s conception of practical rationality questions the instrumental world view that justifies the priority of individuals and their rights over the society.

Keywords

• alternative liberalism
• procedural liberalism
• practical rationality
• understanding
• cultural world and conception of the good