This study positions Lukacs' theoretical writings with respect to recent debates in Marxism and postmodernism in order to establish his lasting importance as a theorist. There are chapters on realism and Lukacs' contributions to Marxist philosophy and political theory.
Focusing on the evolution of post-Marxism, the book explores its emergence as a distinct theoretical framework. It delves into the historical development of the Marxist tradition while also contemplating the future directions and potential of this school of thought. Through a critical analysis, it aims to provide insights into the ongoing relevance and transformation of Marxist ideas in contemporary discourse.
Contemporary American crime fiction features detectives who often resort to revenge as a means of achieving justice, reflecting a society grappling with declining moral values. This study explores how the traditional image of the detective as a moral exemplar or heroic figure is challenged in the writings of authors like James Ellroy and Sara Paretsky, revealing a more complex and flawed portrayal of these characters.
Exploring a diverse array of influential figures, this book delves into the ideas and contributions of notable thinkers, including John Barth, John Cage, and Quentin Tarantino. It examines their impact on literature, music, and film, highlighting their unique perspectives and creative innovations. Through this exploration, the work connects various artistic disciplines and offers insights into the cultural landscape shaped by these prominent personalities.
Provides information in graphic novel format about the wealth of critical theories from sources including deconstructionists, poststructuralists, postmodernists, second-wave feminists, new historicists, and cultural materialists.
Exploring the philosophical and political dimensions of post-truth, this book delves into its implications for contemporary society. It critiques the intellectual credibility of post-truth by examining its relationship with scepticism and relativism, arguing against its defense by recent philosophical movements. The connection between post-truth and conspiracy theories is highlighted, alongside its influence on religious beliefs. Ultimately, the work warns of post-truth's threat to liberal democracy and Enlightenment values, advocating for urgent countermeasures to prevent a shift towards a post-liberal era dominated by the far right.
Exploring contemporary debates in continental philosophy, the book reintegrates Sartre's work into the current French philosophical landscape. It highlights a significant shift in thought, suggesting that a qualitatively different discourse is emerging. This theme-led approach offers insights into the evolution of philosophical ideas since Sartre's time, making it a valuable resource for understanding modern continental philosophy. First published in 2000, it remains relevant for those interested in the intersections of past and present philosophical thought.
There are many reasons to despair over the state of the world today: climate change, war, terrorism, social injustice and an utter failure by our political systems to fix them. Yet there will always be those frustrating optimists who counter such an outlook by citing developments such as modern medicine, democracy and the World Wide Web as signs that things are, and always have been, getting better. Stuart Sim argues in response that there is tremendous value in keeping the dark side of human affairs at the forefront of our consciousness. This book offers the proposition that pessimists simply have a more realistic world view. Tracing how pessimism has developed over time, it shows that many thinkers throughout history - including philosophers, theologians, authors, aritsts and even scientists - have been pessimists at heart, challenging us to face up to the problems that define human existence. Spanning cultures and moving across eras, this grand discourse of pessimism proposes the provocative argument that pessimism should be cultivated and vigorously defended as one of our most useful dispositions. -- from back cover.
It is Jean François Lyotard's political focus that singles him out from his poststructuralist and postmodernist contemporaries. He is invariably 'thinking politics': finding ways of translating philosophical thought into a basis for political action. Stuart Sim explores how Lyotard's brand of pragmatism can provide a focus for political theory and action in our cultural climate, especially in light of the dramatic resurgence of right-wing extremism.
Proposes a defence of the role of dissent in political life