The first book-length study of Cornel West, one of America's foremost public intellectuals.

Outlines the main themes of his thought and discusses all of his major works, which span philosophy, politics, theology and Afrocan America Studies.

West's work impacts on debates surrounding race relations, the future agenda of the Left and the resurgence of pragmatism. He offers a compelling vision of the way in which values derived from spirituality can underline a movement for radical social transformation.

Cowan argues that liberation theology provides the most coherent approach to West's work, and shows how this links to his political and ethical commitments.

Provides a clear and highly accessible introduction to the work of Cornel West, a provocative and eclectic thinker who has emerged as one of America's foremost public intellectuals.

West's work encroaches on important contemporary debates concerning race relations, the future agenda of the Left and the resurgence of pragmatism.

He offers a compelling vision of the way in which values derived from spirituality can underline a movement for radical social transformation.

His political ethic seeks not only to reinvigorate leftist politics but also to reconcile American democratic practice with democratic theory.

A major feature of this book is Cowan's assertion that liberation theology provides the most coherent approach to West's work.