Conclusion: Cosmopolitanism as an Intellectual and Political Project

Abstract

Cosmopolitanism is an intellectual and political project that makes the promise of a global civil society. In its mature, ideal — yet to be realized — form it is richly interwoven in the social fabric, deeply felt by members, and an inclusive, ethically-based practical response to the social fact of globality. As a principle of social solidarity cosmopolitanism asks members reflexively to reconsider local loyalties as the primary basis for social and cultural interaction. It is founded upon the development of shared connections, material linkages and ethical reflexivities which seek inspiration beyond the local and national, or the restricted and parochial. The result of such developments leads to the acknowledgement of, engagement with and possibly incorporation of social groups previously considered to represent the other.