The Ethics and Politics of Asylum
Liberal Democracy and the Response to Refugees
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Cambridge University Press
Published:8th Jul '04
Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back
This book explores the ethical and political dimensions of asylum, addressing the responsibilities of developed nations towards refugees and the challenges they face.
In The Ethics and Politics of Asylum, the author delves into the complex landscape of asylum policies that have gained prominence in developed nations over the past two decades. The book examines the intricate interplay between political theory and ethical considerations, shedding light on the experiences of countries like the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Australia. It raises critical questions about the responsibilities of wealthy nations towards refugees, particularly in the context of rising economic migration and the measures states may take to control their borders.
Asylum has become a contentious political issue, prompting debates about the rights of asylum seekers versus the need for states to manage immigration effectively. The author explores whether it is justifiable for states to implement restrictive measures that may limit the rights of asylum seekers in order to enhance the protection of a greater number of refugees. This moral dilemma is a central theme of the book, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the ethical implications of asylum policies.
Ultimately, The Ethics and Politics of Asylum offers a compelling narrative that not only explains the emergence of asylum as a key political issue but also proposes pathways for states to develop morally defensible responses to the challenges posed by refugees. By integrating ethical theory with real-world examples, the book serves as a vital resource for understanding the complexities of asylum in contemporary society.
'This is the only book length study available of the ethics of asylum. Gibney's book weaves together theory and practice, combining a detailed empirical account of asylum policies in four countries with a sophisticated normative analysis. It is intelligent, perceptive, and lucidly written. Anyone interested in questions about refugees should read this book.' Joseph H. Carens, University of Toronto
'In this courageous work, Gibney undertakes a lucid critique of prescriptive theories regarding the obligations of liberal democracies to asylum-seekers and subjects their current practices to an unsparing examination. Far from academic exercises, these are the elements of a compelling this-worldly humanitarian approach that imposes itself to the attention of policy-makers and concerned activists.' Aristide R. Zolberg, Walter P. Eberstadt Professor of Political Science, New School University
'… well-written and interesting … The attempt to 'test' ethical theory against practice marks a welcome addition to the existing literature, and is a real virtue of this book.' International Affairs
'Matthew Gibney elegantly explores the evolution of asylum practices of four liberal democracies, touching upon highly problematic ethical dimensions. … Gibney's profound engagement in the topic shows clearly.' Journal of Peace Research
'Recent international refugee law scholarship has seen an increasing focus on a 'Convention Plus' approach to refugee-protection: that is, on international burden sharing arrangements, and the temporary protection of refugees in situ. Strong pragmatic arguments have been advanced for this shift in focus; whereas, to date, no sustained normative theoretical justification has been advanced in the same direction. In The Ethics and Politics of Asylum, Matthew Gibney makes an important contribution to filing that gap, and thus to grounding a Convention Plus approach in ethical as well as pragmatic-political imperatives.' International Journal of Refugee Law
ISBN: 9780521009379
Dimensions: 229mm x 154mm x 20mm
Weight: 490g
300 pages