Cambridge Sociální a kulturní studia Série

Social Postmodernism defends a postmodern perspective anchored in the politics of the new social movements. The volume preserves the focus on the politics of the body, race, gender, and sexuality as elaborated in postmodern approaches. But these essays push postmodern analysis in a particular direction: toward a social postmodernism which integrates the micro-social concerns of the new social movements with an institutional and cultural analysis in the service of a transformative political vision.

The book offers a comparative analysis of the gay and lesbian movements in America and Britain following World War II. It delves into the distinct historical trajectories, cultural contexts, and sociopolitical challenges faced by these movements in each country. By examining key events, figures, and societal attitudes, the author highlights the similarities and differences that shaped the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in both nations. This exploration provides valuable insights into the evolution of these movements and their impact on contemporary society.

Exploring the intersections of political and social theory, the book delves into pressing issues surrounding diversity, equality, and inequality. It examines how to define legitimate differences and the complexities of maintaining progressive practices in society. By connecting theoretical insights to real-world conflicts, it addresses contentious topics like religious symbolism, same-sex marriage, and public smoking, providing a nuanced perspective on contemporary social debates.

Lisa McCormick considers the history of classical music competitions and their role in society today by examining highlights and controversies.

The book delves into how the cultural trauma of slavery has shaped African American identity. Ron Eyerman examines the historical and social contexts that contribute to this identity formation, highlighting the lasting impact of slavery on contemporary African American culture and consciousness. Through a nuanced analysis, he addresses themes of memory, resilience, and the ongoing struggle for identity within the African American community.

The book delves into the racial and gender social movements of the 1960s, exploring their roots in earlier traditions and the cultural and historical contexts that shaped them. It highlights the interconnectedness of these movements, offering insights into their evolution and impact on society. Through a detailed analysis, the author sheds light on the struggles and achievements of activists, emphasizing the significance of their contributions to contemporary social justice efforts.

Exploring the origins of evil desire, this book delves into the circumstances that give rise to such impulses and examines how they can manifest in collective acts of wrongdoing. Through a detailed analysis, it seeks to understand the psychological and social factors that contribute to these phenomena, offering insights into the nature of evil and its impact on society.

This significant contribution to social theory explores the complexities of difference, focusing on critical issues such as gender, race, and sexuality. The leading scholar delves into how these elements shape identities and societal structures, offering insightful analysis and perspectives that challenge conventional understandings. The work aims to deepen the discourse around these vital topics, making it essential reading for those interested in contemporary social issues and theories.

Focusing on identity and political action, this book critiques rational choice theory while addressing why Sweden intervened in The Thirty Years' War. Erik Ringmar posits that motivations rooted in identity, rather than mere self-interest, drove Swedish leaders to seek recognition for themselves and their nation. The work combines cultural and narratological analysis with empirical study, offering a fresh perspective on historical events and the complexities of political decisions.

Alberto Melucci brings an original perspective to research on collective action, emphasizing the role of culture and making telling connections with the experience of the individual in postmodern society. The focus is on the role of information in a world both fragmented and globalized, and topics addressed include political conflict, feminism, ecology, identity politics, power and inequality. The book builds on the author's Nomads of the Present (1989), and is a companion volume to The Playing Self (CUP, 1996).