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

Author: Shi Zhiyu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-11-01
Features: This book focuses on the main challenges posed by cultural studies to scientism, aiming to help readers break free from the pervasive hegemony of scientism, re-examine the nature of knowledge, spark interest in further inquiry, and deeply reflect on the significance of contemporary social sciences and political knowledge. Each chapter adopts the method of forced dialogue, presenting diverse research questions and methodologies targeting specific research agendas. It introduces critiques of scientism in social sciences from the field of cultural studies while exploring how cultural researchers new paths for social science knowledge. Throughout the chapters, the author engages with scholars from both China and the world, demonstrating his wisdom and unique exploration in a slightly postmodern literary style, making the book worth careful reading for readers from different academic backgrounds. Professor Shi Zhiyu has compiled the essays he wrote during his recent lectures in various places into this book. With five parts and ten chapters, the book covers a wide range of topics, but all chapters revolve around a central theme: the critique and reflection on scientism, which holds a dominant position in contemporary social science research. Through critical analysis of scientism's research methodologies and practices in each chapter, the author attempts to deconstruct the mainstream discourse and its hegemonic structure based on scientism, emphasizing the importance of cultural studies in contemporary social science research. This aims to awaken social scientists to treat "others" with equality and show care for the marginalized (such as ethnic minorities). In the author's arguments throughout the book, he engages with scholars from both China and the world, and in his slightly postmodern literary style, he expresses his dissatisfaction with scientism while revealing his compassionate heart for the suffering.