The Right to Resist: Philosophies of Dissent

New forms of political, ethical, and aesthetic resistance are becoming increasingly important. This volume explores these forms of resistance from a philosophical and critical theory perspective, focusing on the relationship between resistance, conformism, and oppression, and the practices of dissent in various areas of society, such as the arts, religion, and social media.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 09 February 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

While the notion of a total revolution may seem outdated in today's world, there is growing agreement on the significance of emerging forms of political, ethical, and aesthetic resistance. In the past, resistance often took the form of protests against specific institutions. However, dissent has gradually become an integral part of modern life. This volume explores new avenues of resistance that blend a deep understanding of philosophical traditions with a willingness to reexamine the potential for emancipation in the contemporary era. The work primarily focuses on contemporary social and political philosophy, drawing from critical theory to provide a framework for analysis.

The text specifically addresses three critical challenges. Firstly, critical theorists must investigate the ways in which resistance, conformism, and oppression interact and mutually constitute each other. Secondly, the relationship between resistance theory and practice must be reevaluated in light of recent protest movements and the diverse media through which they are expressed. Thirdly, it is essential to demonstrate how different sectors of society, such as the arts, religion, and social media, establish distinct practices of resistance.

The chapters in this volume are written by scholars from Asia, Europe, and North America, each specializing in resistance discourse. These experts explore a range of dissent practices, including traditional forms of civil disobedience, more recent tactics such as guerrilla protest, art, and resistance in digital networks, including social media. What unites these scholars is a shared concern for the dimensions of political acts of resistance in an age characterized by a tendency to integrate and thereby neutralize those very acts.

In conclusion, this volume offers a comprehensive exploration of new forms of resistance in the contemporary world. By blending philosophical insights with a critical theoretical framework, it provides valuable insights into the complexities of political, ethical, and aesthetic resistance. The chapters contribute to our understanding of the ways in which individuals and communities can challenge dominant narratives and promote social change in an age of increasing globalization and technological advancement.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350265264