Curiosity and Power: The Politics of Inquiry

Curiosity is a social force that reflects the social values and power structures of a given society. It is a critical factor in social justice and political resistance. Perry Zurn's book explores the political philosophy of curiosity, arguing that it is a social force that is implicated in the maintenance of societies and their transformation. It draws on philosophy, political theory, feminist theory, race theory, disability studies, and trans studies to track curiosity in the structures of political marginalization and resistance. The book insists that the power of curiosity be recognized and engaged responsibly.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2021
Publisher: University of Minnesota Press

Curiosity is a political force that reflects the social values and power structures of a given society. In his book, "Curiosity and Power," Perry Zurn explores the political philosophy of curiosity, claiming that it is a social force that drives political resistance and social justice. He argues that the scaffolding of curiosity is the product of political architectures, and exploring these values and architectures is crucial for understanding and navigating the struggle over inquiry in an unequal world.

Curiosity and Power explores curiosity through the lens of political philosophy, incorporating ideas from Nietzsche, Foucault, and Derrida. It also delves into the experience of political marginalization, demonstrating that curiosity is implicated in both the maintenance of societies and their transformation. Curiosity plays a central role in establishing social institutions and fields of inquiry, as well as in their deconstruction and the building of new forms of political community.

Understanding curiosity is essential for understanding politics, and understanding politics is essential for understanding curiosity. The book draws on philosophy, political theory, feminist theory, race theory, disability studies, and trans studies to track curiosity in the structures of political marginalization and resistance. It examines cases such as the Civil Rights Movement and efforts to build better social relationships.

Curiosity and Power emphasizes the power of curiosity and encourages its responsible engagement. It calls for recognizing and harnessing curiosity as a tool for social change and promoting justice and equality. The book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the political stakes of curiosity and its potential to shape a more equitable and inclusive world.

Weight: 428g
Dimension: 140 x 216 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781517907198