Critical Turns in Critical Theory (PDF)

NJR - BLURB IN ITS RAW FORMThe contemporary world is one of contingency and risk. We face a range of social and political problems barely imaginable to previous generations. How we address these will determine the prospects of our planet and all life on it, including the human species itself. Never before have the issues been more complex nor the stakes so high. 'Critical Turns in Critical Theory: New Directions in Social and Political Thought' is pitched at this rapidly changing and complex reality. It brings together a diverse range of scholars unified under the project of addressing selected topics in the context of contemporary critical social theory. Each contribution addresses a theme that has been prominent in civil society at a regional or global level in recent years. Each explores new theories, critiques, analyses and practices to address these debates. The book loosely revolves around the seminal work of the critical social theorist Piet Strydom, whose work is becoming increasingly influential. His special contribution has been his capacity to mobilise strong theoretical frames in his critical insights into some of the most demanding and intractable of contemporary issues. His influence is reflected in all the contributions to this volume. Responsibility, risk, ethics and communication are prominent themes, bringing together both a richness of theory and pressing contemporary dilemmas. Embedded in the discussions are questions relating to identity and cosmopolitanism which animate much contemporary debate around the world. A range of substantive issues is faced like the environment, science and technology, gender, development and law. The topics reflect the scope of critical social theory, with its tradition for tackling the pressing concerns of the day, a contribution often prized more highly in retrospect. This book attempts to not just face the relevant issues, but to present compelling alternative understandings against the seeming hegemony of liberal ideology.