El debate entre universalismo y particularismo. Un ensayo sobre los complejos vínculos entre historia, identidad y derechos humanos

Abstract

This essay deals with the confrontation between universalistic and particularistic principles with regard to collective identities and nationalities in the Third World. Universalistic principles are based on the 18th century rationalism. This current does not care for national singularities. Particularistic tendencies are based on relativism. They seek to understand each case by reconstructing its history. Making a critique of both tendencies, the author attempts at a prolific synthesis of them, which are considered as complementary. For instance universal ethics and human rights could build the fundamentals for an effective right to difference.