The Routledge Companion to Actor-Network Theory

The Routledge Companion to Actor-Network Theory explores ANT as an intellectual practice, highlighting its engagements with other academic and activist projects. It features the work of second-generation ANT scholars from around the world, showcasing the exciting depth and breadth of contemporary ANT and its potential for future applications. The companion consists of 38 chapters, addressing key questions about ANT and its capabilities, including its origins, dialogues with other fields, limitations, development in social scientific fields, and real-world applications. Each chapter provides an overview of relevant work, introduces original examples, and encourages readers to engage with complex case studies across various disciplines.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 458 pages
Publication date: 21 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive companion delves into the realm of Actor-Network Theory (ANT) as an intellectual practice, tracing its evolution and engagements with a diverse array of academic and activist projects. It showcases the remarkable contributions of a diverse group of 'second generation ANT scholars from around the world, highlighting the vibrant depth and breadth of contemporary ANT and its boundless potential for future exploration.

The companion is organized into 38 chapters, each addressing a fundamental question about ANT and its capabilities. The early chapters delve into ANT as an intellectual practice, exploring its dialogues with other fields and prominent theorists. These chapters shed light on the rich tapestry of ideas and concepts that have influenced ANT's development.

Subsequent chapters engage in critical and thought-provoking discussions about the limitations and boundaries of ANT. They challenge readers to consider the potential shortcomings of this approach and encourage them to explore alternative frameworks and methodologies.

Later sections of the companion explore the application of ANT in various social scientific fields, showcasing its versatility and adaptability. Chapters delve into how ANT has been employed to examine diverse scales and sites, from the micro-level interactions of individuals and communities to the macro-level dynamics of social systems and institutions.

The final section of the companion focuses on ANT's involvement in real-world endeavors, such as disability activism, environmental activism, and even the operation of a Chilean hospital. These chapters provide valuable insights into the practical applications of ANT and its potential to make a positive impact on society.

Each chapter in the companion offers an overview of relevant work in the field, accompanied by original examples and ideas derived from the authors' recent research. The chapters are designed to be read in any order or combination, allowing readers to tailor their exploration of ANT according to their interests and needs.

Throughout the volume, authors employ ANT as a powerful tool to examine and account for a diverse range of captivating case studies. These case studies span from wheelchair activism to parliamentary decision-making, from racial profiling to energy consumption monitoring, and from queer sex to Korean cities. The authors' innovative approaches and insightful analyses provide a rich tapestry of perspectives and insights.

A comprehensive introduction by the editors provides a broader perspective on the significance of ANT and serves as a guide to the volume. The introduction offers an overview of the key concepts and theories explored in the companion, as well as the contributions of the featured scholars.

The Routledge Companion to Actor-Network Theory is an invaluable resource for academics, advanced undergraduates, and postgraduates from a wide range of disciplines within the social sciences. It will inspire and engage readers with its comprehensive coverage of ANT, fostering a deeper understanding of this influential intellectual practice and its potential to shape our understanding of the world.

Weight: 850g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032475486