Radical Universalism

Omri Boehm

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English

New York Review Books
14 October 2025

Religion & beliefs

A compelling philosophical exploration of the concept of universalism and its role-or lack thereof-in contemporary politics. This accessible study challenges the prioritization of identity politics over universal equality, using Kant as a lens through which to understand our present moment.

A compelling philosophical exploration of the concept of universalism and its role-or lack thereof-in contemporary politics. This accessible study challenges the prioritization of identity politics over universal equality, using Kant as a lens through which to understand our present moment.

The entire political spectrum of our day, from left to right, reflects the politics of identity. The left speaks of race and gender; the right of blood and soil, homeland and people- the animosity between them is only the difference between the two sides of the same coin. As to universalism? Of that great cause all that seems to remain is an empty shell of legalism and proceduralism. Modern liberalism's prejudicial focus on the rights of individual citizens comes at the expense of a larger commitment to the richness and variety of the human, a focus that can seem as narrow and hidebound as the nationalisms with which it seeks to do battle.

In Radical Universalism- Beyond Identity, Omri Boehm presents a startling and revelatory new reading of Kant as heir to the Biblical prophets and as progenitor of the revolutionary commitment to freedom and equality that is modernity's moral lodestone. His book offers a powerful plea to put this much misunderstood and long forsaken tradition of humanistic universalism at the heart of political life.

By: Omri Boehm
Imprint: New York Review Books
Country of Publication: United States [Currently unable to ship to USA: see Shipping Info]
Dimensions: Height: 216mm, Width: 146mm,
Weight: 369g
ISBN: 9781681379852
ISBN 10: 1681379856
Pages: 176
Publication Date: 14 October 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Omri Boehm is a professor of philosophy at the New School for Social Research. He is the author of The Binding of Isaac- A Religious Model of Disobedience and Kant's Critique of Spinoza. His writings on Israeli politics and culture have appeared in Haaretz, Die Zeit, The New York Times, and elsewhere.