Radical Humanism Discussion Questions

From SandeepPurao

Discussion

1. Like the theorists in the Interpretive Sociology quadrant, the Radical Humanists believe in the notion that the individual creates the world he/she lives in (a Kantian perspective). What is the key point of difference between these two schools of thought then? (See the origins as well as Frankfurt School)
2. Theorists in this quadrant follow two avenues of discourse: subjective idealism (consciousness is but a stream of ideas that creates an external world) or objective idealism (constant interplay between individual consciousness and its objectification in the external world). Which of these two positions do you think is appropriate for application of the idea of a 'dialectic'? Why?
3. A simple question now: the first key position in this quadrant is 'Critical Theory' that, following Burrell and Morgan, has the following goal: "its proponents seek to reveal society for what it is, to unmask its essence and mode of operation and to lay the foundations for human emancipation through deep-seated social change." Explain where this group of theorists would fit onto the two dimensions of Burrell and Morgan: (dimension 1: subjective <-> objective; dimension 2: regulation <-> radical change).
4. One of the important ideas underlying critial theory is 'the alienated state of the individual' (along with it is the concept of the 'cognitive wedge'). How would you explain these ideas to someone, who does not know much about critical theory (i.e. without big words)? (Suggest that you use an example)
5. Gramsci argued that "power and domination in capitalism rested not only with the material means of coercion but also within the consciousness of individuals, through ideological hegemony." What does hegemony mean? Do you is ideological hegemony practiced in research disciplines? colleges? universities? (Let's resist the urge to discuss this by referring to specific individuals, shall we?)
6. A question for later discussion: The ideas of Marcuse (from the Frankfurt School) make us question whether we are right to keep advancing technology without paying attention to 'surplus repression' that comes from 'technology's role in evolving new, increasingly effective and more pleasant means of social control and cohesion.' How would you defend research related to creating better consumer-oriented information technologies against such a critique? (Note his warnings about how this produces a 'one-dimensional society' - affluence and creation of false needs impedes development of radical protest against the established order)
7. The French Existentialist position provides an interesting path from unfettered human consciousness to the need to be someone in society. The comment in the mindmap/html-ized version that says "What makes this interesting is that what is (b) to one individual is (a) to other individuals, this leads to the dual role for an individual - an individual is (b) as well as (c)." How well do you think you practice 'nothingness' in your daily life?
8. The functionalists' critique of radical humanists goes along these lines: "Radical humanists are Utopians who do not adjust to the realities and therefore, do not accept the inevitable march of progress." Pick a position in favor of or against this critique and argue your position.