文化批判の作法

―ジョセフ・カレンズの議論をてがかりに―

抄録

In this article, I explore whether we should be able to criticize other cultures, and if so, how we should criticize them when we face others who commit to cultural practices which we do not share in the culturally plural world. For example, should we be able to criticize illiberal culture on the basis of liberalism? To address these questions, I focus on the arguments of Joseph Carens. At first. I examine Carens' general methodology on the question of justice. He adopts a contextual approach. He is significantly influenced by Michael Walzer's. above all Spheres of Justice's, methods. Then I turn to Carens' arguments about cultural criticism. It consists of three parts. First, I consider his 'concentric circle' model as a method for identifying 'us' (the agent of criticism) and 'the others' (the objects of criticism). This model is based on a consideration of the thickness of culture. Second. I consider the kinds of arguments for criticism and counter-criticism. Third. I offer some 'manners' which we should keep in mind when we criticize other culture. They are derived from several concrete examples and contextual considerations which Carens provides. And one of the most important 'manners' is to avoid self-righteous criticisms which are based on biased view or ignorance about others or ourselves. Finally I briefly review the implications which Carens' arguments have for the problems of cultural plurality.