The Politics of Postanarchism - Paperback

by Saul Newman (Author)

What is the relevance of anarchism for politics and political theory today? While many have in the past dismissed anarchism, the author contends that anarchism's heretical critique of authority, and its insistence on full equality and liberty, places it at the forefront of the radical political imagination today. With the unprecedented expansion of state power in the name of security, the current 'crisis of capitalism', and the terminal decline of Marxist and social democratic projects, it is time to reconsider anarchism as a form of politics. This book seeks to renew anarchist thought through the concept of postanarchism.This innovative theoretical approach, drawing upon classical anarchist theory, poststructuralism, post-Marxism, critical theory and psychoanalytic approaches, allows for a new engagement with contemporary debates about future directions in radical politics relating to political subjectivity and identity, political organisation, the State, globalisation, liberty and equality today, and the political 'event'.

Front Jacket

AUTHOR APPROVED 'Saul Newman is one of the pioneers in redeeming the promise of anarchist thought with the resources of contemporary continental philosophy ... A compelling framework for progressive political thought and intervention.' Professor Todd May, Clemson University 'Saul Newman announces postanarchism as a lively, vital and highly pertinent perspective for our times. With a brilliant grasp of the anarchist tradition, of continental theory and the political challenges of the contemporary world, Newman unpacks the meaning and relevance of postanarchism to readers at all levels of experience ... Highly recommended.' Professor Simon Tormey, University of Sydney What is the relevance of anarchism for politics and political theory today? With the unprecedented expansion of state power in the name of security, the current 'crisis of capitalism', and the terminal decline of Marxist and social democratic projects, it is time to reconsider anarchism as a form of politics. Saul Newman renews anarchist thought through the concept of postanarchism, contending that anarchism's heretical critique of authority, and its insistence on full equality and liberty, places it at the forefront of the radical political imagination today. Key Features o Develops an original, politically radical theorisation that moves beyond anarchism o Engages with contemporary debates about political subjectivity and identity, political organisation, the State, globalisation, liberty and equality and the political 'event' o Builds on continental, poststructuralist and post-Althusserian political thought Saul Newman is Reader in Political Theory at Goldsmiths, University of London. He is author of From Bakunin to Lacan (2001), Power and Politics in Poststructuralist Thought (2005) and Unstable Universalities: Poststructuralism and Radical Politics (2006).

Author Biography

Saul Newman is Professor at the Goldsmiths, University of London