Utopia: Social Theory and the Future

Nonfiction, Social & Cultural Studies, Social Science, Sociology
Cover of the book Utopia: Social Theory and the Future by Keith Tester, Taylor and Francis
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Keith Tester ISBN: 9781317002970
Publisher: Taylor and Francis Publication: February 17, 2016
Imprint: Routledge Language: English
Author: Keith Tester
ISBN: 9781317002970
Publisher: Taylor and Francis
Publication: February 17, 2016
Imprint: Routledge
Language: English

In the light of globalization's failure provide the universal panacea expected by some of its more enthusiastic proponents, and the current status of neo-liberalism in Europe, a search has begun for alternative visions of the future; alternatives to the free market and to rampant capitalism. Indeed, although these alternatives may not be conceived of in terms of being a 'perfect order', there does appear to be a trend towards 'utopian thinking', as people - including scholars and intellectuals - search for inspiration and visions of better futures. If, as this search continues, it transpires that politics has little to offer, then what might social theory have to contribute to the imagination of these futures? Does social theory matter at all? What resources can it offer this project of rethinking the future? Without being tied to any single political platform, Utopia: Social Theory and the Future explores some of these questions, offering a timely and sustained attempt to make social theory relevant through explorations of its resources and possibilities for utopian imaginations. It is often claimed that utopian thought has no legitimate place whatsoever in sociological thinking, yet utopianism has remained part and parcel of social theory for centuries. As such, in addition to considering the role of social theory in the imagination of alternative futures, this volume reflects on how social theory may assist us in understanding and appreciating utopia or utopianism as a special topic of interest, a special subject matter, a special analytical focus or a special normative dimension of sociological thinking. Bringing together the latest work from a leading team of social theorists, this volume will be of interest to sociologists, social and political theorists, anthropologists and philosophers.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

In the light of globalization's failure provide the universal panacea expected by some of its more enthusiastic proponents, and the current status of neo-liberalism in Europe, a search has begun for alternative visions of the future; alternatives to the free market and to rampant capitalism. Indeed, although these alternatives may not be conceived of in terms of being a 'perfect order', there does appear to be a trend towards 'utopian thinking', as people - including scholars and intellectuals - search for inspiration and visions of better futures. If, as this search continues, it transpires that politics has little to offer, then what might social theory have to contribute to the imagination of these futures? Does social theory matter at all? What resources can it offer this project of rethinking the future? Without being tied to any single political platform, Utopia: Social Theory and the Future explores some of these questions, offering a timely and sustained attempt to make social theory relevant through explorations of its resources and possibilities for utopian imaginations. It is often claimed that utopian thought has no legitimate place whatsoever in sociological thinking, yet utopianism has remained part and parcel of social theory for centuries. As such, in addition to considering the role of social theory in the imagination of alternative futures, this volume reflects on how social theory may assist us in understanding and appreciating utopia or utopianism as a special topic of interest, a special subject matter, a special analytical focus or a special normative dimension of sociological thinking. Bringing together the latest work from a leading team of social theorists, this volume will be of interest to sociologists, social and political theorists, anthropologists and philosophers.

More books from Taylor and Francis

Cover of the book Open Space: People Space by Keith Tester
Cover of the book Contesting Inter-Religious Conversion in the Medieval World by Keith Tester
Cover of the book Literature and Drama by Keith Tester
Cover of the book The Soviet Regional Dilemma by Keith Tester
Cover of the book The Employment Relationship by Keith Tester
Cover of the book Music, Masculinity and the Claims of History by Keith Tester
Cover of the book Understanding India's New Political Economy by Keith Tester
Cover of the book The Cid and His Spain by Keith Tester
Cover of the book The Research Process in Sport, Exercise and Health by Keith Tester
Cover of the book Street Entrepreneurs by Keith Tester
Cover of the book Encyclopedia of Social Work with Groups by Keith Tester
Cover of the book Globalizing Education, Educating the Local by Keith Tester
Cover of the book Developing a Local Curriculum by Keith Tester
Cover of the book Heritage Knowledge in the Curriculum by Keith Tester
Cover of the book Land Law Lawcards 2012-2013 by Keith Tester
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy