Onur Acaroglu's Rethinking Marxist Theories of Transition explores the concept of transition across Classical and Western Marxism, highlighting its significance as a social reality and a critical tool for social theory. He introduces the notion of temporal dislocation to theorize transition as a qualitative shift between societies, emphasizing its undervalued role in social reproduction.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 226 pages
Publication date: 03 February 2022
Publisher: Haymarket Books

Rethinking Marxist Theories of Transition

Onur Acaroglu's "Rethinking Marxist Theories of Transition" explores the concept of transition across Classical and Western Marxism, highlighting its significance as a social reality and a valuable tool for critical social theory. While transition between societies is often overlooked or reduced to eventual historical stages, Acaroglu proposes a novel theory of temporal dislocation to redefine our understanding of transition. By examining transition through the lens of out-of-joint temporalities, Acaroglu reveals the undervalued tendency of temporal dislocation in social reproduction.

Transition as a Qualitative Shift between Societies

Transition as a qualitative shift between societies is often seen as a future historical stage or even erased altogether. However, Acaroglu argues that transition is a crucial aspect of social reproduction that deserves more attention. By examining the dynamics of transition, Acaroglu aims to shed light on the complex processes that shape our understanding of society and the world around us.

Theory of Temporal Dislocation

Acaroglu introduces the theory of temporal dislocation as a means to rethink transition. Temporal dislocation refers to the experience of time that is out of joint with the social structures and institutions that shape our lives. It encompasses the feeling of being stuck in time, disconnected from the present, and unable to move forward. Acaroglu argues that temporal dislocation is a significant factor in social reproduction, as it affects the way we perceive and interpret the world around us.

Out-of-Joint Temporalities

Acaroglu proposes that transition can be understood through the framework of out-of-joint temporalities. Out-of-joint temporalities refer to the ways in which different temporalities coexist and interact within a society. These temporalities can be conflicting, overlapping, or complementary, and they shape our experiences and perceptions of time. Acaroglu argues that understanding out-of-joint temporalities is essential for understanding transition and social reproduction.

Undervalued Tendency in Social Reproduction1>

Acaroglu contends that temporal dislocation is an undervalued tendency in social reproduction. While temporal dislocation is often associated with negative experiences such as anxiety, depression, and trauma, Acaroglu argues that it can also be a source of creativity and innovation. By examining the ways in which temporal dislocation affects our lives, Acaroglu aims to challenge the dominant narratives that shape our understanding of society and the world around us.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Onur Acaroglu's "Rethinking Marxist Theories of Transition" offers a fresh perspective on the concept of transition and its significance in critical social theory. By exploring the dynamics of transition through the framework of out-of-joint temporalities, Acaroglu reveals the undervalued tendency of temporal dislocation in social reproduction. This theory has the potential to transform our understanding of society and the world around us, and it is essential for anyone interested in social justice and social change.

Weight: 430g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781642596137