Critical Humanism

We live in a mutilated world and our humanity seems irrevocably damaged. Many critics suggest we have reached the end of humanity. In this challenging book, Ken Plummer suggests that such claims may be premature; instead, what we need is a new transformative understanding of humanity.

Critical Humanism critically reflects upon and reimagines humanism for the twenty-first century. What is now required is a fresh, wide-ranging imaginary of an open, worldly, plural and caring humanity. It needs to take a critical stance towards older, often divisive ideas of what it means to be human, while reconnecting to a wider understanding of the rich diversity of life in the pluriverse.

In an age of post- and transhumanist turns, Plummer provides a personal, political and passionate call for thinkers, researchers and activists to not turn their backs on humanism. We need instead to create a vital new political imaginary of being human in a connected planet. We simply cannot afford to be anti-human or posthuman. Restoring our belief in humanity has never been more important for edging towards a better world for all.

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

Contenu
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