Matu?tik's remarkable new study of Jurgen Habermas provides a three-dimensional portrait of a finely etched figure set against the uneven ground of Germany's postwar struggle to transform itself into a robust democracy. A compelling presentation of the drama of critical intellect at its most incisive. -- Martin Jay, University of California, Berkeley Martin Matu?tik's book is not only an insightful and rigorous introduction to the systematic aspects of Habermas's work but also an extremely valuable reconstruction of the intellectual trajectory of the author under scrutiny, and a thorough presentation of the cultural background from which his theoretical project emerged. -- Ernesto Laclau, University of Essex Exceptional book! Matu?tik's work offers a new model of writing a biography of an engaged philosopher and the first integral narrative of Habermas's political life. Under the shadow of May 1945, Habermas, member of the great skeptical generation, could not lead the generation of May 1968, because he judged it as if it were an expression of left fascism. Similarly, after the events of November 1989 he remained blind to many negative aspects of the American imperial hegemony. Yet without doubt, Habermas is a unique witness of Germany's 20th century, a philosopher whose most significant production is not exhausted by his splendid writings, but rather finds its full embodiment in his political life as honest search for truth. -- Enrique Dussel, Universidad Autonoma Metroplitana-Iz (Mexico City) Martin Matu?tik has written a fair summation and incisive critique of the work of Jurgen Habermas. He brings an original interpretation of earlier thinkers of critical theory such as Adorno and Benjamin and thinkers associated with postmodernism such Foucault and Derrida to deepen our understanding of both the significance and limitations of Habermas's work. The book is clearly written and will make an important addition to the Habermas scholarship. -- Drucilla Cornell, Rutgers University In Matu?tik's book Habermas's thought distinctively meets his life (within the vast relevant scholarship). The thought is thoroughly treated. Perspectives on Political Science An innovative and provocative work that raises new questions and offers intellectual insights. -- Stephen Eric Bronner, Rutgers University Offers a very detailed account of the evolution of Habermas's political ideas and an exhaustive study of his quest to relate his theorizing to changing political issues. The book includes a very extensive list of Habermas's writings and a full bibliography of sources. Recommended for graduate and research collections. CHOICE Matustik approaches his subject with an appealing combination of enormous respect and shrewd scepticism. This portrait effectively captures the formative episodes of a figure who has persistently sought to define the boundaries of responsible opposition. New Left Review
