Ghosts of Archive: Deconstructive Intersectionality and Praxis

Ghosts of Archive argues that archive is fundamentally and structurally spectral and that the work of archive is justice. It establishes a unique nexus between deconstructive intersectionality and traditions of 'memory for justice' in struggles against oppression, and offers new ideas about spectrality, banditry, and archival activism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 166 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Ghosts of Archive is a groundbreaking book that delves into the enigmatic realm of archives, challenging the conventional understanding of these repositories of historical and cultural information. Through a rich tapestry of deconstruction, intersectionality, and archetypal psychology, the author argues that archives are not merely physical containers but are, in fact, fundamentally and structurally spectral. This spectral nature implies that archives are imbued with the lingering presence of past events, memories, and individuals, shaping their contents and meanings in profound ways.

The author's extensive research on deconstruction and archives over the past two decades serves as the foundation for this compelling argument. The book posits that archives are not just mere archives but are essential resources for social justice activism. It serves as a source of inspiration, wisdom, and resilience for individuals and communities seeking to confront injustice and promote equity. By exploring the concept of "hauntology," which refers to the study of the haunting presence of the past, the author invites readers to engage with the call for justice in non-disciplinary spaces. He argues that archives are not only constructed in relation to the present but are also haunted by the ghosts of the living, the dead, and those yet to be born. These ghosts, representing different aspects of history and society, exert a powerful influence on the way archives are organized, accessed, and interpreted.

The book establishes a unique nexus between deconstructive intersectionality and traditions of "memory for justice" in struggles against oppression from South Africa and elsewhere. By drawing on these diverse sources, the author offers new insights into the spectrality of archives, exploring how they can be used as tools for resistance, transformation, and healing. The book challenges readers to think critically about the power of archives and their role in perpetuating or challenging dominant narratives. It encourages a deconstructive praxis in the contemporary archive, one that recognizes the spectral nature of these repositories and seeks to uncover the hidden stories, marginalized voices, and suppressed histories that they contain.

Ghosts of Archive is not only a scholarly work but also a call to action. It appeals to a wide range of disciplines, including archival science, information studies, psychology, social justice issues, transitional justice, history, philosophy, memory studies, and postcolonial studies. The book offers valuable insights and perspectives that can inform and inspire practitioners, researchers, and activists working to promote justice, equality, and social change. By exploring the spectral nature of archives, the book encourages readers to think beyond the confines of traditional archival practices and to embrace the potential of these repositories to foster empathy, understanding, and collective memory.

In conclusion, Ghosts of Archive is a groundbreaking book that offers a fresh and compelling perspective on archives and their role in shaping our understanding of the past and present. Through a rich blend of theoretical frameworks and empirical research, the author challenges the conventional understanding of archives and presents a vision for a more inclusive and justice-oriented approach to these repositories of historical and cultural information. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in social justice, archival science, and the power of memory to shape our collective future.

Weight: 310g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367681142