Anxiety, Modern Society, and the Critical Method: Toward a Theory and Practice of Critical Socioanalysis

An innovative, interdisciplinary assessment of the origins and operations of anxiety in modern life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 413 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2022
Publisher: Haymarket Books

Anxiety, Modern Society, and the Critical Method delves into the intricate web of historical connections between political economy, technology, and anxiety. By employing the analytical tools honed by critical theorists to identify the symptoms of modern life—such as alienation, anomie, the Protestant ethic, and repression—Joel Michael Crombez makes a compelling case for the revitalization of critical social science to effectively grapple with the pervasive anxiety of contemporary societies.

While anxiety often finds its place within the realm of psychology and its reliance on biomedical interventions for treatment, here, anxiety emerges as an integral part of the overarching logics of modern society. Consequently, Crombez presents a comprehensive and interdisciplinary framework, known as critical socioanalysis, to diagnose and address anxiety, accounting for its multifaceted psychosocial origins.

This book offers a profound exploration of the ways in which anxiety permeates various aspects of modern life, from individual experiences to societal structures. By examining the historical intersections of political economy, technology, and anxiety, Crombez sheds light on the complex mechanisms that contribute to this pervasive phenomenon. He argues that anxiety is not merely a personal or psychological issue but rather a product of the broader social, economic, and political dynamics of modern societies.

Through a rigorous analysis of these interconnections, Crombez proposes a revitalization of critical social science as a means to better confront and address the anxiety of life in modern societies. He advocates for a more comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach that incorporates insights from various fields, including psychology, sociology, political science, and cultural studies. By building upon the tools developed by critical theorists, such as the diagnosis of alienation, anomie, and repression, Crombez offers a framework for understanding and addressing the root causes of anxiety.

Moreover, the book delves into the ethical implications of anxiety and its impact on individual and collective well-being. Crombez questions the dominant narratives that perpetuate anxiety, such as the notion that technology is solely responsible for our problems or that individual responsibility is the key to overcoming anxiety. Instead, he advocates for a more nuanced understanding of anxiety that recognizes the complex interplay between individual agency, social structures, and technological advancements.

In conclusion, Anxiety, Modern Society, and the Critical Method is a thought-provoking and indispensable book for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of anxiety in modern societies. By offering a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, Crombez provides a roadmap for diagnosing and treating anxiety while challenging the dominant narratives that perpetuate it. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of social science and has the potential to inspire further research and dialogue on this critical issue.

Dimension: 228 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781642597691