Critical Humanism (eBook)

Ken Plummer is Emeritus Professor of Sociology at the University of Essex.

List of tables and figures

Acknowledgements

Introduction

I

Re-thinking the World: Connected Humanity

1 Critical Humanism

II

Dehumanizing the World: Disconnected Humanity

2 Damaging Humanity

3 Dividing Humanity

4 Traumatizing Humanity

III

Humanizing the World: Flourishing Humanity

5 Narrating Humanity

6 Valuing Humanity

7 Transforming Humanity

IV

Transforming the World: A Politics of Humanity

8 A Manifesto for the 21st Century

Short Guide to Further Reding

Notes

Index

'[R]efreshing: [Plummer's] vision of critical humanism is aspirational and ambitious, yet it strives to sustain humility based on historical experiences.'
Social Forces

'This book is an extraordinarily brave and enormously comprehensive attempt to re-energize an interest in the battered concept of humanism, fully realizing its author's intention to provide "a vision of something better".'
Laurie Taylor, University of York, and presenter of Thinking Allowed, BBC Radio Four

'Plummer engages with an extraordinary range of different literatures and a lifetime of reflection to consider what it will take to be truly human in the twenty-first century. We should grapple seriously with his impassioned and challenging arguments.'
Rob Stones, Western Sydney University

'Ken Plummer's mission has been to expand the range and depth of decencies; here he seeks larger principles on which to ground mutual regard. This is a fundamental study - rooted in conscience, sociological learning and intimate generosity. Critical Humanism stirs the mind.'
Harvey Molotch, New York University, and University of California, Santa Barbara