What's Wrong with Antitheory?

Antitheory explores the relationship between antitheory and theory, examining its historical context and current state. It brings together scholars from various Humanities disciplines to address questions about antitheory, post-theory, and the critique of critique.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 20 May 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

· How does antitheory relate to other forms of theory,such as postcolonialism,deconstruction,and queer theory?
Antitheory has been a respected theory for a long time, and while it may seem contradictory, these two forces have been intertwined throughout history. Antitheory: The First Book to Explore the Vexed Relationship from the 20th Century to the Present Day is the first book to delve into this complex relationship, examining antitheory in its historical context and its current state. It brings together renowned scholars from various Humanities disciplines to address crucial questions such as: What is antitheory? What does it mean to be against theory in the modern era? What is the current state of post-theory, the alleged death of theory, and the critique of critique? How does antitheory relate to other forms of theory, such as postcolonialism, deconstruction, and queer theory?

Antitheory challenges traditional notions of theory and offers a fresh perspective on the relationship between theory and its critics. It explores the ways in which antitheory has emerged as a response to the perceived excesses and limitations of theory, and how it has challenged established paradigms and opened up new avenues of inquiry.

One of the key themes of Antitheory is the notion of antithesis. Antithesis is the process of opposing or contradicting a thesis or theory, and it has been a central feature of philosophical and artistic discourse throughout history. Antitheory argues that antithesis is not simply a negative or destructive force, but rather a necessary and productive aspect of the intellectual process. It suggests that by challenging established theories, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world and develop new insights and perspectives.

Antitheory also explores the relationship between theory and power. It argues that theory has often been used to justify and maintain power structures, and that antitheory seeks to challenge these structures and promote social justice and equality. It examines the ways in which theory can be used to oppress and marginalize certain groups, and how antitheory can be used to challenge these practices and promote a more inclusive and democratic society.

In addition to its theoretical insights, Antitheory also offers practical applications. It suggests that antitheory can be used to develop new strategies and approaches to social and political problems, and that it can be used to challenge the status quo and promote change. It provides examples of how antitheory has been used in various fields, such as literature, art, and politics, and how it has had a significant impact on society.

However, Antitheory also faces challenges. One of the main challenges is the perception that antitheory is simply a reactionary or negative force. Some critics argue that antitheory is a form of nihilism that seeks to destroy all forms of theory and knowledge. Antitheory, however, argues that it is a constructive and positive force that seeks to challenge and improve existing theories and knowledge.

Another challenge is the lack of a clear definition of antitheory. There is no single definition of antitheory, and different scholars have different interpretations of the term. This can make it difficult to understand and apply antitheory in practice.

Despite these challenges, Antitheory has the potential to make a significant impact on the field of theory and its relationship to power. It offers a fresh perspective on the relationship between theory and its critics, and it provides practical applications for developing new strategies and approaches to social and political problems. It is a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners alike, and it will continue to be a topic of discussion and debate in the years to come.

In conclusion, Antitheory is a valuable book that explores the vexed relationship between theory and its critics from the 20th century to the present day. It challenges traditional notions of theory and offers a fresh perspective on the relationship between theory and power. It explores the ways in which antithesis can be used to challenge established theories and promote social justice and equality, and it offers practical applications for developing new strategies and approaches to social and political problems. While it faces challenges, it has the potential to make a significant impact on the field of theory and its relationship to power.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 155 x 232 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350234475