Narcissistic limits of Axel Honneth's theory of recognition

This study focuses on the theory of recognition put forward by Axel Honneth to understand, analyze and resolve contemporary socio-cultural and political conflicts. Since 1990, many social groups have voiced demands for recognition. Some of these demands cause destructive conflict. These facts necessarily directs political theory to the issues of identity and recognition. Axel Honneth's theory of recognition is among the most known and discussed in this context. In the first part of the thesis, the contemporary socio-political situation will be evaluated sociologically and intellectually. In the second part, the theory of recognition proposed by Honneth's theory to analyze this socio-political situation will be examined in general terms. By focusing on the concept of narcissism, its meaning in the literature will be explored and these elements will be traced in Honneth's theory. Finally, in order to envision a real relationship of recognition, Honneth's theory will be approched with Levinas' ethical philosophy, and the relations between recognition and responsibility will be emphasized.