New Culture of Energy: Beyond East and West

Luce Irigaray explores the cultivation of energy, the integration of Asian and Western traditions, and the reenvisioning of religious figures for the contemporary world. She incorporates bodily practices of yoga and pranayama breathing to support physical and spiritual well-being, contrasting yogas approach to the natural world with the Western tradition's emphasis on mastery. Irigaray reinterprets the figure of Mary through breath, self-affection, and touch, recalibrating her physicality within a natural world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2021
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Luce Irigaray delves into profound and thought-provoking themes in her book, A New Culture of Energy. Through her exploration of three critical concerns of our time—the cultivation of energy in its diverse forms, the integration of Asian and Western traditions, and the reimagining of religious figures for the contemporary world—Irigaray offers a unique perspective as both a philosopher and a psychoanalyst. Drawing upon her personal experiences, she challenges conventional notions and seeks alternative solutions to address these pressing issues.

In her view, while psychoanalysis can be effective in releasing mental energy, it falls short in promoting physical and spiritual well-being. Seeking an alternative path, Irigaray delves into the bodily practices of yoga and pranayama breathing, considering them in the context of her analysis of sexuate belonging and difference. Through her reflection on these practices, she contrasts the yogic approach to the natural world with the Western tradition's emphasis on mastery over nature. These diverse sources ignite her curiosity and prompt her to question the ways in which traditions envision transcendence and the divine.

In the final section of the book, Irigaray reinterprets the figure of Mary through the lens of breath, self-affection, and touch, recalibrating her physicality within a natural world. This transformative reimagining encourages us to cultivate an evolutionary culture that harmonizes with all living beings, fostering the liberation and flourishing of human energy.

A New Culture of Energy is a profound and inspiring exploration of our time, offering valuable insights and perspectives that challenge us to rethink our beliefs and practices. Through her interdisciplinary approach, Irigaray invites us to embrace a more holistic and inclusive vision of human existence, one that recognizes the interconnectedness of all things and seeks to cultivate a culture of harmony and well-being for ourselves and the planet.

Weight: 156g
Dimension: 199 x 130 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231177139