Critical Visions: New Directions in Social Theory

In this remarkable book, Anthony Elliott develops a wide-ranging analysis of key issues and debates in contemporary social theory. Drawing social theory, cultural studies, and psychoanalysis together in a bold configuration, Elliott challenges the widespread view that social theory seems to have lost its way as a result of the diversification of conceptual approaches. In outlining an approach that places imagination and creativity at the center of social theory, Elliott argues that theoretical pluralism--from post-structuralism to postmodernism, from psychoanalysis to deconstruction--represents not the demise, but the renewal of critical social theory. Elliott opens with critical readings of the terrain of contemporary social theory and theorists, among them Ulrich Beck, Anthony Giddens, Jurgen Habermas, Jacques Lacan, Cornelius Castoriadis, and Julia Kristeva. He follows with an analysis of key debates in critical social theory. Questions relating to the globalization of risk, citizenship, morality and ethics, politics and norms, and sexuality and desire are all explored. This book is essential reading for students seeking a broad understanding of the confluence of sociology, social theory, politics, and cultural studies.