Political Trauma and Care in Arendt’s Perspective on Human Rights: A Case Study of the 228 Peace Movement
Author: Shu-Fen Lin（Adjunct Assistant Professor Department of Philosophy National Chengchi University）
Vol.&No.：Vol. 69, No. 1
Date：March 2024
Pages：51-69
DOI：https://doi.org/10.6210/JNTNU.202403_69(1).0003
Abstract：
Hannah Arendt’s work The Origins of Totalitarianism (1951) presents a profound perspective on human rights. She argues that human rights are not merely inherent; they are the “right to have rights.” This concept goes beyond natural rights or abstract notions of humanity. Instead, it stems from mutual recognition within a community, allowing individuals to insert themselves into the world through words and actions. Arendt emphasizes that the denial of human rights results in the loss of a place where one can speak, act, and begin anew. It signifies the deprivation of a homeland—a space for individual uniqueness and distinctness. In this discourse, equality arises not from birth but from the promise of rights among equals. The article “Political Trauma and Care in Arendt’s Perspective on Human Rights” delves into Taiwan’s “228 Peace Movement.” Contrary to focusing solely on victims, the movement cares for injured communities, including perpetrators and citizens. By acting in concert, it aims to foster a sense of togetherness and provide each community member with a home to realize their individuality. In other words, reconciliation is not merely between the perpetrator and the victim; it is a reconciliation among all citizens who inhabit the land. Only through this process can a genuine community emerge, gradually building a homeland where the concept of human rights becomes a tangible reality.
Keywords：human rights, promise, community, mutual recognition, forgiveness
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