New Books in Critical Theory Robert F. Carley, "Culture and Tactics: Gramsci, Race, and the Politics of Practice" (SUNY Press, 2019)
Sep 23, 2025
Robert F. Carley, an Associate Professor at Texas A&M and author of Culture and Tactics, dives into the intersection of Gramsci's theories and race. He argues that social movement tactics are more than just means to an end; they express demands for justice. Carley discusses how Gramsci's innovative approaches bridged racial divides among workers and illuminates modern implications for critical race theory and cultural studies. His insights challenge us to rethink the role of tactics in shaping political communities and mobilizing marginalized voices.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Tactics As Cultural Practice
- Tactics are both cultural practices and organized political acts that express injustice publicly.
- Carley frames tactics as meaningful performances that produce culture while pursuing strategic goals.
Read Hall To Reframe Theory
- Detour through Stuart Hall when studying race and social movements to connect micro practice with macro theory.
- Criticize and adapt theories rather than applying them uncritically to suit contemporary political projects.
Ideological Contention Explains Internal Conflict
- Ideological contention explains internal disputes about strategy and belief inside movements, not just external framing.
- Gramsci's correspondence shows internal debate shapes organization, membership, and tactics.
