We Can Do Better: Ideas for Changing Society by David Camfield (English) Paperba

The Nile on eBay   We Can Do Better by David Camfield

In We Can Do Better, David Camfield lays out a theoretical basis for political and social change that fuses critical Marxism with insights from anti-racist queer feminism. This reconstructed historical materialism treats capitalism and class as inextricably interwoven with gender, race and sexuality.

FORMATPaperback LANGUAGEEnglish CONDITIONBrand New Publisher Description

The view that capitalism is an inherently flawed, exploitative, crisis-prone, oppressive system is not new. But neoliberal capitalism's flaws are increasingly dangerous in Western countries and globally as corporations exert growing influence on governments, as the endless pursuit of profits pushes our climate to the breaking point and as far-right politics dominate the media. Solutions are needed. Fast.In We Can Do Better, David Camfield lays out a theoretical basis for political and social change that fuses critical Marxism with insights from anti-racist queer feminism. This reconstructed historical materialism treats capitalism and class as inextricably interwoven with gender, race and sexuality. After discussing today's most influential social theories, Camfield uses this theory to analyze a range of issues that face our world today, including climate change, growing social insecurity and the persistence of sexism and racism. Camfield argues that the key to achieving change for the better is social struggle, and he offers ideas about moving from social theory to social action.

Author Biography

David Camfield teaches labour studies and sociology at the University of Manitoba and has been involved in social justice efforts since high school. He is the author of Canadian Labour in Crisis: Reinventing the Workers' Movement.

Table of Contents

: Introduction : Ideal Explanations? : In Our Genes? : All About Markets? : Why Materialism Matters : How to Think about Societies : Understanding History: How Societies Change : Capitalism : Why Is Life Getting Harder for People in Rich Countries? : Why Is So Little Being Done about Climate Change? : Why Do Women Still Face Sexism? : Why Is Sex Still Political? : Why Does Racism Persist? : Why Isn?t There More Revolt? : Is Significant Change for the Better Possible? : Can We Do Better Than Capitalism? : What Are We Going to Do? From Theory to Action : Notes : Suggestions for Further Reading : Glossary : Acknowledgements : Index

Review

"Clear, concise and well-argued, David Camfield's We Can Do Better offers a powerful critique of our current system and provides hope for a better one. Aimed at newcomers, but rewarding to theoretically sophisticated readers, he relies on a reconstructed historical materialism that integrates the best of Marx and the most important insights of feminist and anti-racist analyses of capitalism, decisively refuting the standard counter-position of class and identity politics. Whether one agrees entirely or not, this is a stimulating contribution to theoretical debates regarding capitalism and strategic debates regarding how we can move beyond it."--Nancy Holmstrom, editor of The Socialist Feminist Project"This is a must read book for anyone who wants to understand the complex forces that shape our societies and change them."--Sara Farris, University of London, author of In the Name of Women's Rights: The Rise of Femonationalism"This valuable book offers a theoretical tool chest for radicals, grounded in activist learning from the past 150 years of struggle yet open to ongoing developments. The development of theory can sometimes be cast as an ivory tower pursuit, outside of, and irrelevant to, activist struggles. This book shows the power of radical theory rooted in activist knowledge in contributing to the development of effective approaches to the struggles of our times."--Alan Sears, Ryerson University, author of The Next New Left: A History of the Future"With a new generation questioning capitalism and the social oppressions around us, there could not be a better time for David Camfield's innovative case for a renewed historical materialism. Taking on some of the most important challenges to anti-capitalism, Camfield makes the case for a radical socialism that is anti-racist, feminist, pro-queer and ecological. In so doing, he powerfully demonstrates that historical materialism--if creatively applied--offers a compelling means to critically understand our world, the better to change it."--David McNally, York UniversityPeople who are inspired to change the world in the name of social justice need to cultivate an understanding of how the world works under capitalism. We are in a period of new movements emerging or re-emerging to combat sexism, racism, and myriad of other oppressions, and in the face of ecological crisis and reactionary right-wing movements, the stakes are high. As an introduction to social theory, this book will be especially useful to the activist who has questions about how seemingly separate causes are connected. This book will be a valuable tool in working together for the just society we deserve."--Suzanne MacNeil, President, Halifax-Dartmouth & District Labour CouncilThe best basis for political education in our times -- one that is unlikely to be surpassed anytime soon.--International Viewpoint

Review Quote

"With a new generation questioning capitalism and the social oppressions around us, there could not be a better time for David Camfield's innovative case for a renewed historical materialism. Taking on some of the most important challenges to anti-capitalism, Camfield makes the case for a radical socialism that is anti-racist, feminist, pro-queer and ecological. In so doing, he powerfully demonstrates that historical materialism--if creatively applied--offers a compelling means to critically understand our world, the better to change it."

Details ISBN1552669963 Author David Camfield ISBN-10 1552669963 ISBN-13 9781552669969 Format Paperback Pages 168 Imprint Fernwood Publishing Co Ltd Subtitle Ideas for Changing Society Place of Publication Black Point, Nova Scotia Country of Publication Canada Publisher Fernwood Publishing Co Ltd Short Title We Can Do Better Language English DEWEY 303.401 Year 2017 Publication Date 2017-08-14 UK Release Date 2017-08-14 Series Emersion: Emergent Village resources for communities of faith Audience Professional & Vocational We've got this

At The Nile, if you're looking for it, we've got it.With fast shipping, low prices, friendly service and well over a million items - you're bound to find what you want, at a price you'll love!

TheNile_Item_ID:149632041;