The Power of Critical Theory: Liberating Adult Learning and Teaching - Hardcover

Brookfield, Stephen D.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0787956015 ISBN 13: 9780787956011

Publisher: Jossey-Bass, 2004

Synopsis

The Power of Critical Theory is Brookfield’s attempt to put the “critical” back into critical thinking by emphasizing that it is an inherently political process. The book presents powerful arguments for the importance of critical theory in fostering the kind of learning that leads to a truly democratic society, and it explores a number of tasks for adult learners including learning to challenge ideology, contest hegemony, unmask power, overcome alienation, learn liberation, reclaim reason, and practice democracy.

About this title

From the Back Cover

"This is a sophisticated and comprehensive treatment of the power of Socratic questioning of dogmas and a prophetic witness against the conservative status quo. As an educational praxis it is a must–read for all seriously engaged teachers."
Cornel West, Class of 1943 University Professor of Religion and African American Studies, Princeton University

"Stephen Brookfield disturbs and enriches the entire field of adult learning with this brilliant piece of teaching. The Power of Critical Theory is a practicing–what–it–preaches treatment of the power dimensions pervading the adult learning enterprise."
Robert Kegan, Meehan Professor of Adult Learning, Harvard University Graduate School of Education

"The volume is a major contribution by a leading professional and will become an invaluable resource for graduate programs of adult education and allied fields. It belongs in the professional libraries of serious educators of adults everywhere."
Jack Mezirow, professor emeritus, adult and continuing education, Columbia University, Teachers College

"I learned more from this book than from dozens of other adult education publications. Brookfield clearly presents various elements of critical theory and makes cogent connections to adult educational practices. This book is sure to become a major reference text in the field."
Elizabeth Hayes, professor of curriculum and instruction, University of Wisconsin Madison

About the Author

Stephen D. Brookfield is distinguished professor at the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota. He also serves as consultant to the adult education doctoral program at National Louis University in Chicago. He is the author of Becoming a Critically Reflective Teacher, Developing Critical Thinkers, Discussion as a Way of Teaching, The Skillful Teacher, and Understanding and Facilitating Adult Learning.

Edition details

• Publisher: Jossey-Bass
• Publication date: 2004
• ISBN 10: 0787956015
• ISBN 13: 9780787956011
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 432