The Lacanian Left: Psychoanalysis, Theory, Politics - Hardcover

Yannis Stavrakakis

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0748619801 ISBN 13: 9780748619801

Publisher: Edinburgh University Press, 2007

Synopsis

In recent years psychoanalysis -- especially Lacanian theory -- has been gradually acknowledged as a vital resource in the ongoing re-orientation of contemporary political theory and analysis. Of particular note is that the work of Jacques Lacan is increasingly being used by major political philosophers associated with the Left. This indicates the dynamic emergence of a new theoretico-political horizon: that of the 'Lacanian Left'. However, this has yet to be properly conceived and structured as a field. The Lacanian Left is the first book to bring it into academic consciousness and to draw its implications for concrete political analysis in a systematic way. It offers: * An accessible mapping of its main contours. * A detailed examination of the points of convergence and divergence between the major figures active or at the periphery of this terrain, including Slavoj h the central Lacanian notion of 'enjoyment', The Lacanian Left puts forward innovative analyses of political power and authority, nationalism, European identity, consumerism and advertising culture, de-democratisation and post-democracy. It will be of value to everyone interested in exploring the potential of psychoanalysis to reinvigorate political theory, critical political analysis and democratic politics.

About this title

Review:

This book is an extraordinary tour de force. After a panoramic view of the Lacanian streams that cut through the intellectual landscape of contemporary political analysis, Stavrakakis develops his own interpretation of how a Lacanian political theory can shed light on fundamental social issues such as national identity, consumerism and advertising. Impeccably researched, invariably stimulating and madly original, this book will appeal to everyone interested in cutting-edge political theory and social analysis. As a bonus, many of Lacan's most difficult concepts and formulations are elucidated and elaborated in accessible terms.

Review:

In this readable and enlightening book, Stavrakakis deftly explores the affective limits of discourse analysis while revealing the transformative potential of Lacanian political theory. A "must read" for anyone looking for novel approaches to nationalism, consumerism and the other political and social conundrums of our day.

About this edition

• Publisher: Edinburgh University Press
• Publication date: 2007
• ISBN 10: 0748619801
• ISBN 13: 9780748619801
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 256