Power of Cute

The cuteness has a powerful hold on us, from emojis and fluffy puppies to its more uncanny, subversive expressions. Simon May's book explores the meaning of cuteness, why it is so pervasive, and its dark and unpindownable side. He argues that cuteness is an addictive antidote to today's pressured expectations of knowing our purpose, being in charge, and appearing predictable, transparent, and sincere.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 256 pages
\n Publication date: 19 March 2019
\n Publisher: Princeton University Press
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Cuteness has taken the world by storm, captivating our hearts and minds with its immense appeal. From the adorable emojis and fluffy puppies to the more uncanny and subversive expressions of cuteness, it has permeated every aspect of our culture. But what exactly is "cute," and why is it so pervasive? Is it merely a childish trait, or is there something more sinister and intriguing going on? In his book, The Power of Cute, Simon May offers a nuanced and surprising exploration of this captivating phenomenon.

We often perceive cuteness as being diminutive, harmless, and helpless. However, May challenges this prevailing perspective by examining a wide range of subjects, from Mickey Mouse to Kim Jong-il, to argue that cuteness extends beyond these sweet qualities. It can beguile us by transforming or distorting them into something of playfully indeterminate power, gender, age, morality, and even species.

May delves into the dark and unpindownable side of cuteness, exploring the elements that have fascinated humanity since ancient times through mythical figures, particularly hybrids like the hermaphrodite and the sphinx. He argues that cuteness is an addictive antidote to the pressured expectations of knowing our purpose, being in charge, and appearing predictable, transparent, and sincere. Instead, it frivolously expresses the uncertainty that these norms deny: the ineliminable uncertainty of who we are; of how much we can control and know; of who, in our relations with others, truly has power; indeed, of the very value and purpose of power.

The Power of Cute delves into a phenomenon that speaks with strange force to our age. It challenges our assumptions and perceptions of what is cute and reveals the complex and multifaceted nature of this phenomenon. Through his insightful analysis, May offers a fresh perspective on cuteness, one that encourages us to think critically about the ways in which it shapes our lives and culture. Whether we are drawn to the adorable or the uncanny, cuteness has a power that cannot be denied, and it is up to us to navigate its complexities with open minds and hearts.

\n Weight: 284g\n
Dimension: 124 x 181 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780691181813\n \n