Critical Theory and Social Pathology: The Frankfurt School Beyond Recognition

In the twenty-first century, critical theory is in crisis and needs a normative social research vehicle. This book returns to the work of Erich Fromm and Herbert Marcuse to offer an alternative, arguing that thought can be reified, imaginations debased, and desires artificially induced. We need to think beyond recognition and embrace a more potent and aggressive form of social critique.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 29 November 2022
Publisher: Manchester University Press

In the ever-evolving neoliberal landscape of the twenty-first century, the progressive academy finds itself in dire need of a means to conduct normative social research. Once upon a time, critical theory rose to the occasion, providing a robust framework for such inquiry. However, today, critical theory faces a crisis of its own. The 'pathologies of recognition approach,' favored by contemporary critical theorists, inadvertently supports neoliberalism rather than challenging it. This is partly due to its inability to grasp the fundamental structural nature of power.

To provide an alternative, this book takes a fresh look at the works of Erich Fromm and Herbert Marcuse, drawing upon them as the foundation for a revitalized social theoretical framework. As the pioneering generation of critical theorists rightly recognized, thought itself can be reified, our imaginations debased, and our desires artificially induced. It is time to transcend the limitations of recognition and embrace a more potent and aggressive form of social critique, true to the founding spirit of the Frankfurt School.

In this quest, we must delve deeper into the complexities of power and its various manifestations. We must acknowledge the ways in which power operates not only in the realm of politics and economics but also in the broader social and cultural spheres. We must recognize the ways in which power shapes our identities, our relationships, and our sense of reality itself.

Furthermore, we must challenge the notion that power is inherently negative or oppressive. Instead, we must recognize that power can be both positive and negative, depending on how it is wielded and by whom. We must also acknowledge the ways in which power can be resisted and subverted, both individually and collectively.

To achieve this, we must develop a more comprehensive understanding of social theory and its role in shaping our world. We must explore the various schools of thought, from classical Marxism to post-structuralism, and draw upon their insights to develop a more nuanced and comprehensive approach to social critique.

Moreover, we must be willing to engage in a rigorous and critical examination of our own beliefs and assumptions. We must be open to challenging our own biases and prejudices, and to exploring new ways of thinking and understanding the world.

In conclusion, the progressive academy urgently needs a vehicle for normative social research. Critical theory once fulfilled this role, but today it faces a crisis. By returning to the works of Erich Fromm and Herbert Marcuse and embracing a more potent and aggressive form of social critique, we can reclaim the spirit of the Frankfurt School and contribute to the ongoing struggle for a more just and equitable society.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526154736