New Perspectives on Social Science Knowledge: Ten Critiques from a Cultural Studies Standpoint

Author: Shi Zhiyu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-11-01
Features: Professor Shi Zhiyu has compiled the papers he wrote during his recent lectures in various places into this book. The book consists of five parts and ten chapters, covering a wide range of topics. However, all chapters revolve around a central theme: a critique and reflection on scientism, which holds a dominant position in contemporary social science research. Through his critique of scientism's research methodology and practice in each chapter, the author attempts to deconstruct the mainstream discourse and its hegemonic structure, which is based on scientism, while emphasizing the importance of cultural studies in contemporary social science research. This aims to awaken social scientists to treat "the other" with equality and show care for the vulnerable (such as ethnic minorities). In the discussions throughout the book, the author references scholars both within and outside China, and his slightly postmodern writing style reveals his dissatisfaction with scientism as well as his compassionate heart.