New Books in Critical Theory

Michael Lazarus, a Lecturer in political theory at King's College London and author of Absolute Ethical Life, explores the intertwining of ethics and capitalism through the lenses of Marx, Aristotle, and Hegel. He critiques the impoverished ethical landscape under capitalism and reinterprets Marx as an ethical thinker. Lazarus discusses how capitalist structures shape freedom, critiques Hannah Arendt’s separation of action and production, and emphasizes the need for systemic solutions to foster human flourishing in modern society.

Charles J. Stivale, Distinguished Professor Emeritus, and Dan Smith, Professor of Philosophy, dive into Deleuze's groundbreaking seminars on painting. They discuss the nuances of translating Deleuze's seminars, revealing rich material often overlooked in his published works. The duo explores Deleuze's pedagogy, highlighting the dynamic interactions with students that shaped his ideas. They also debate the interplay between philosophy and art, using Francis Bacon as a lens to examine concepts and affects, all while intertwining themes across Deleuze's broader oeuvre.

Tim Beasley-Murray is an Associate Professor of European Thought and Culture at University College London and author of Critical Games. He explores the interplay between play and seriousness in literature and academia. Tim discusses how different modes of play enhance our understanding of ethical storytelling and creative expression. He emphasizes the importance of the humanities and shares insights on Emmanuel Carrère's blurring of fiction and reality. Ultimately, Tim advocates for a more playful and embodied approach to academic writing.

Joanna Woronkowicz, an economist and creative labor scholar, dives into the intricate world of artistic careers and cultural policy. She uncovers what defines a contemporary artist, analyzing the diverse demographics and challenges faced by the arts workforce today. With a focus on the impact of education and training, she highlights the realities of nonstandard employment and project-based work. Woronkowicz also discusses how location influences artistic success and shares key principles for effective arts workforce policy to support a vibrant creative economy.

Valerie Tiberius, a professor of philosophy at the University of Minnesota, discusses her book on navigating life’s conflicting values. She blends personal anecdotes with philosophical insights, emphasizing the importance of understanding what truly matters to us. Tiberius explores hidden goals and values, illustrating them through relatable examples. She also reflects on the impact of community, relationships, and societal challenges, particularly around issues like sexism and racial justice, urging us to embrace conflict while prioritizing our true aspirations.

In this discussion, Eva Meijer, a renowned philosopher and visual artist, delves into the revolutionary idea of multispecies assemblies, where nonhuman beings engage as political actors. She argues for the necessity of incorporating diverse life forms into political discourse to combat ecological crises. Topics include the ethics of representation, the cognitive capacities of plants, and how gardens can serve as democratic thought experiments. Meijer emphasizes learning from and listening to all species to foster truly inclusive communities.

Massimo Modonesi is a professor at the Autonomous National University of Mexico, focusing on Marxist theory and social movements. Joining him is Maria Vignau, a researcher and educator pursuing her PhD. Together, they delve into the concepts of subalternity, antagonism, and autonomy in political subjectivation. They discuss the complexities of class struggle, the dynamics of resistance versus rebellion, and the challenges facing Latin American social movements today. The conversation also touches on Gramsci's ideas about subalterns and how movements can regain their momentum.

Bill V. Mullen, a Professor of English and American Studies at Purdue University, explores the life of James Baldwin, a pivotal figure in African American literature and activism. Mullen discusses Baldwin's impoverished childhood, his break from religion, and his exiles in Paris and Istanbul, highlighting their impact on his creativity. He delves into Baldwin's views on Palestine and capitalism, and draws parallels between Baldwin and fellow dissident Ghassan Kanafani. Mullen also reflects on Baldwin's enduring legacy, particularly in light of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Hamid Dabashi, an academic and author, presents his insights on Gaza in relation to Western moral philosophy. He argues that the chaos in Gaza forces a reevaluation of colonial legacies within Western thought. Dabashi critiques Eurocentric views, exposing how they obscure historical atrocities. He also highlights the power of Palestinian art and literature as vehicles for humanizing marginalized voices. Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of digital testimonies in shaping global consciousness about the conflict.

Gianna Englert, Associate Professor at the University of Florida, delves into the tension between liberalism and democracy in 19th-century France. She intriguingly argues that the concept of 'political capacity' was aimed at preserving democracy while limiting voting rights. The discussion features key thinkers like Benjamin Constant and François Guizot, examining their views on meritocracy versus hereditary privilege. Englert also contemplates lessons from historical debates for today's challenges in liberalism and democracy.