Reviewed by Danielle Mulholland

In Praise of the Common: A Conversation on Philosophy and Politics begins with an introductory intellectual essay by Cesare Casarino on the merits of philosophical discourse by numerous philosophers, with an especial focus on the arguments of Antonio Negri.  The essay challenges contemporary democratic theory by representing arguments from prominent philosophers, the early conceptualisation of “the common” by Dante, and further exploration of subsequent if not opposing theories on his premises.  Five intellectual discussions between literary critic Casarino and leading Marxist philosopher and published author Negri follow, concluding with two final essays, one by each.

Whilst Negri is renowned as a political activist, and for his passion for Marxism and antiglobalisation political movements, Casarino has published numerous essays on philosophy and in particular, Marx.  Their discussions are vigorous and inspired, providing a genealogical line for Negri’s work, showing their conceptualisation and evolution.  Casarino provides further insight into Negri’s work in his two essays by comparing and contrasting it with the philosophical insights and treaties of other prominent intellectuals.  His expansion of Negri’s work is countered by his own alternate perspectives, which he uses to balance what would otherwise be pure discourse on Negri’s theories.

The five discussions that incorporate the evolution of Negri’s work are framed in dialogue form and provide a review of Negri’s theories on Marxism, biopolitics, poverty, democracy, anti-empire movements and capitalism.  These conversations, whilst addressing some of the most challenging issues facing the world today, contain controversial yet logical and well-considered arguments.  The consistent theme throughout focuses on the ongoing condition of the ‘common’ people, who Negri considers have been unfairly disadvantaged, disempowered and suppressed by the larger issues over which they have little or no control.  He is passionate about equity, justice, empowerment, and opportunity for all people, tending towards arguments for communism, yet unstinting in his logic and reason.

The discussions merely provide a framework for what is essentially an exposé on Negri’s philosophical theories concerning these topics, which reveal much of Negri’s passion for his subject matter.  Casarino does not always agree with Negri, but this merely creates a tension to which Negri must respond, possibly providing the most intimate examination of his philosophies, thinking and reasoning than ever previously attempted. 

Whilst Negri has been reviled by some and reviled by others for his controversial theories, this political activist, philosopher, prisoner, terrorist and refugee is surprisingly candid with Casarino.  In Praise of the Common may not be light bedtime reading, but it certainly promises and delivers interesting concepts that are well-represented, well-argued and thought-provoking. 


In Praise of the Common: A Conversation on Philosophy and Politics
(2008)

by Cesare Casarino & Antonio Negri
University of Minnesota Press
ISBN:978-0-8166-4742-2
314pp AUD$44.95