This module will provide you with an overview of some key thinkers and perspectives in the tradition of critical social theory. Lectures will introduce theorists and theoretical turns and situate them in relation to historical events and political struggles. Lectures will give a broad historical outline and overview of theoretical approaches. Seminars will concentrate on specific texts and develop skills in critical reading, analysis and discussion. In addition to lectures and seminars, you will be required to meet up in small groups to discuss readings and work collaboratively to produce a reading group report.
The main topics in 23/24 include Frankfurt School Marxism, Power/Knowledge (post-structuralism), Affect Theory, Decolonial questions and Indigenous Theory.
1 Social Theory as a Living Tradition
2 Marxist Frankfurst School Theory: Fascism and Mass Deception
3 Post-structuralism 1: Pluralising Problems Beyond Capital
4 Post-structuralism 2: Biopower
5 Affect Theory 1: New Atmospheres of Power
6 Reading week
7 Affect Theory 2: Cruel Optimism
8 Decolonial Reckonings: Can the Subaltern Speak?
Religion & the Planetary Crises explores the historical role of religion - especially colonial Christianity - in the creation of the contemporary planetary crises (wherein climate emergency and legacies of racism intersect with neoliberal capitalist crises of authority, mental-health). It also explores the role of religion and spirituality in our responses to these crises. The module develops advanced skills in cultural, social and anti/de/post-colonial theory.