The Posthuman offers both an introduction and major contribution to
contemporary debates on the posthuman. Digital 'second life',
genetically modified food, advanced prosthetics, robotics and
reproductive technologies are familiar facets of our globally linked
and technologically mediated societies. This has blurred the
traditional distinction between the human and its others, exposing the
non-naturalistic structure of the human. The Posthuman starts by
exploring the extent to which a post-humanist move displaces the
traditional humanistic unity of the subject. Rather than perceiving
this situation as a loss of cognitive and moral self-mastery,
Braidotti argues that the posthuman helps us make sense of our
flexible and multiple identities. Braidotti then analyzes the
escalating effects of post-anthropocentric thought, which encompass
not only other species, but also the sustainability of our planet as a
whole. Because contemporary market economies profit from the control
and commodification of all that lives, they result in hybridization,
erasing categorical distinctions between the human and other species,
seeds, plants, animals and bacteria. These dislocations induced by
globalized cultures and economies enable a critique of
anthropocentrism, but how reliable are they as indicators of a
sustainable future? The Posthuman concludes by considering the
implications of these shifts for the institutional practice of the
humanities. Braidotti outlines new forms of cosmopolitan neo-humanism
that emerge from the spectrum of post-colonial and race studies, as
well as gender analysis and environmentalism. The challenge of the
posthuman condition consists in seizing the opportunities for new
social bonding and community building, while pursuing sustainability
and empowerment.
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Produktdetaljer
ISBN
9780745669960
Publisert
2014
Utgave
1. utgave
Utgiver
Vendor
Wiley Professional, Reference & Trade
Språk
Product language
Engelsk
Format
Product format
Digital bok
Antall sider
200
Forfatter