The modern “homo politicus” as a transnational cosmopolitan citizen??
The modern “homo politicus” as a transnational cosmopolitan citizen??

Summary/Abstract: RESEARCH OBJECTIVE: This article takes up the concept of “homo politi‑cus” and seeks a contemporary understanding in the context of a globalized world.THE RESEARCH PROBLEM AND METHODS: In the classical under‑standing, “homo politicus” was the member of a municipal or national civil society who is aware of his or her responsibility towards the community and contributes to it productively. Today, the population is confronted with the fact that the world has become a “global village”. In this context, “homo politicus” can’t be limited to a national identity because contemporary challenges do not recognize national borders. This means that globalization demands a corre‑sponding critical‑global perspective on political responsibility, how to achieve a just and peaceful future. The article is conceived theoretically‑analytically and hermeneutically. THE PROCESS OF ARGUMENTATION: The article reflects on different conceptions of the term “homo politicus”, it addresses the temptation of a na‑tionalistic narrowing and analyses the concepts of state and nation for a design of “homo politicus”. In the literature, an alternative concept to “homo politicus” is found in the form of “citizenship”. Finally, the article discusses the ambivalent role of religions with regard to a trans‑national perspective, but also points out their spiritual potential. RESEARCH RESULTS: The result of the reflections is to develop the idea of “homo politicus” towards a trans‑national cosmopolitan citizenship. Many religions have the spiritual potential to promote this development. CONCLUSIONS, INNOVATIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS:Global or cosmopolitan citizenship is a key aspect of “homo politicus”. It means that everyone is a global citizen and can claim certain rights (e.g. the right to education, a decent standard of living, etc.), but also has duties towards the global community, e.g. by being aware of the impact of one’s actions on the present and future of humanity, striving for a sustainable way of life.

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