On Voluntary Servitude False Consciousness and The Theory of Ideology [Hardcover]

This book addresses a central theme in social and political theory: what is the motivation behind the theory of ideology, and can such a theory be defended?Preface.

1. Introduction.

2. The Forms of False Consciousness.

3. Rationalism and False Consciousness.

4. Unintended Consequences and the Idea of a Social System.

5. Hegel.

6. Marx.

7. Critical Theory.

8. The Theory of Ideology and Beyond.

Bibliography.

Index.

Ever since &Eacutetienne de la Bo&icirctie posed the vexing question, 'why do some men accept their servitude voluntarily?', theorists of all persuasions have struggled to provide a plausible answer. Perhaps the most powerful they have contrived posits the notion of ideological false consciousness, which found special favour among Marxists. In this sober, detailed, and rigorous reconstruction of the historical discourses of ideology critique, Michael Rosen examines all of the arguments on its behalf and finds them wanting. No one who hopes to rescue that answer, or indeed is concerned with the initial question itself, can fail to confront and rebut, if they can, his cogent objections. Professor Martin Jay, University of California, Berkeley

On Voluntary Servitude offers a clear analysis and an exploration of some writings off the beaten track. Political Studies

Fascinating ... ambitious and informative ... incisive conceptual analysis with scholarship which is accurate and invigorating. Times Literary Supplement

He brings ... both tremendous historical erudition and great philosophical rigour. Rosen's discussions of Hume, Rousseau, Smith and Hegel are outstanding, as is his sensitive and illuminating treatment of Benjamin towarlC]