For an Anti-capitalist Psychology of Community

Anti-capitalist political struggle is a site of struggling psychologies, and community psychology can conceive of its discipline in a way that opposes the capitalist political economy. This book draws on these contradictions to enliven psychology to the shifting demands of a community-centred anti-capitalism, offering practical examples and theoretical contributions to grapple with the psychological elements of anti-capitalist struggle.

Format: Hardback
Length: 117 pages
Publication date: 23 April 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The realm of anti-capitalist political struggle is a fertile ground for the exploration of complex psychologies. Conscious political action, while driven by rational intentions, is intricately intertwined with unconscious desires, and the pursuit of material justice is intrinsically linked to the defense of dignity and psychological well-being. However, the question arises: How can community psychologists position their discipline in a way that actively opposes the very capitalist political economy that has, historically, provided legitimacy to most psy-disciplines in exchange for support?

In its exploration of an anti-capitalist psychology of community, this book does not seek to ignore or reconcile the inherent contradictions within such a perspective. Instead, it harnesses these contradictions to invigorate psychology, adapting to the ever-evolving demands of a community-centered anti-capitalism. Through practical examples, the book delves into the psychological aspects of building social movements that challenge neoliberal capitalism as a political system, ideology, and governing rationality. Moreover, it makes significant theoretical contributions, addressing how an anti-capitalist psychology of community can remain attentive to the psychological dimensions of anti-capitalist struggle, what insights the psychological realm can offer to anti-capitalist politics, and how these politics can shape the psychological landscape.

The book's exploration of an anti-capitalist psychology of community is a timely and crucial endeavor, as the world faces profound challenges posed by the dominance of neoliberal capitalism. By embracing the complexities of psychology and recognizing the interconnectedness of material and psychological well-being, community psychologists can play a vital role in shaping a more just and equitable society. Through their work, they can help to dismantle the oppressive structures that perpetuate inequality and promote a more holistic and fulfilling approach to human development.

Weight: 371g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030996956
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022