Anthony Elliott Book order

Exploring major theoretical traditions from the Frankfurt School to the digital revolution, this comprehensive introduction to contemporary social theory offers a clear and updated perspective. The revised edition incorporates recent developments in the field and includes a new chapter focusing on the impact of the digital revolution and emerging technologies, making it a valuable resource for understanding current social dynamics.

The book provides a comprehensive exploration of significant theoretical traditions, ranging from the Frankfurt School and feminism to posthumanism and globalization theory. It offers updated insights into these diverse frameworks, highlighting their evolution and interconnections. Through this examination, readers gain a deeper understanding of contemporary social theories and their implications for various fields of study.

Industrial robots, self-driving cars, customer-service chatbots and Google’s algorithmic predictions have brought the topic of artificial intelligence into public debate. Why is AI the source of such intense controversy and what are its economic, political, social and cultural consequences? Tracing the changing fortunes of artificial intelligence, Elliott develops a systematic account of how automated intelligent machines impact different spheres and aspects of public and private life. Among the issues discussed are the automation of workforces, surveillance capitalism, warfare and lethal autonomous weapons, the spread of racist robots and the automation of social inequalities. Elliott also considers the decisive role of AI in confronting global risks and social futures, including global pandemics such as COVID-19, and how smart algorithms are impacting the search for energy security and combating climate change. Making Sense of AI provides a judiciously comprehensive account of artificial intelligence for those with little or no previous knowledge of the topic. It will be an invaluable book both for students in the social sciences and humanities and for general readers.

Focusing on contemporary social theory, this work provides a comprehensive analysis of significant issues and debates that shape current discourse. It engages with various perspectives and critiques, offering insights into the complexities of social dynamics and theoretical frameworks. The book serves as a critical resource for understanding the evolving landscape of social thought since its original publication in 2003.

Focusing on the intersection of Freudian theory and contemporary critical thought, this work critiques traditional psychoanalysis through a dialogue involving the Frankfurt School and Lacanian traditions. It explores post-Lacanian developments, particularly in feminist theory, highlighting the evolution of social theory and its implications for understanding psychoanalysis. The book serves as a significant contribution to debates about the relevance of psychoanalytic concepts in modern social theory.

Smart guide to a wide range of theories of the social self.

Elliott examines the profound influence of intelligent machines, advanced robotics, and automation on everyday life and modern societies. The book delves into the implications of big data and the Internet of Everything, highlighting how these technologies reshape human interactions, work, and cultural norms. Through insightful analysis, it addresses both the benefits and challenges posed by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence in various aspects of life.