Title
The Poverty Of Theory: Or An Orrery Of Errors
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Dorothy Thompson Writes In Her Introduction: 'This Essay Is A Rarity Among Edward'S Published Work. Although He Was Throughout His Life Interested In The Philosophy Of History And In Various Theoretical Formulations, He Concerned Himself With These Mainly In Private Reading And Private Discussion. Why Then Did He Write This Essay? He Had Read The Works Of Louis Althusser And Found Very Little In Them To Affect His Work. When Althusser Appeared On The Scene He Made Little Impact On Practising Historians. For Some Reason However, He Suddenly Became A Major Force Among Graduate Students And Some Young Historians And Literary Scholars. Most Historians Would Have Been Prepared To Wait For The New Influence To Demonstrate Its Validity In The Production Of Innovative Work In History; Not Only Did This Not Happen, But Althusser'S Followers Even Some Of The Historians Among Them Began To Declare That History Was A Nondiscipline And That Its Study Was Of No Value. It Was The Influence That Althusser'S Writings Were Having On Scholarship That Made Edward Take On The Uncongenial Task Of Putting The Case For History Against His Closed System.'The Result Is A Major Critique Of Althusserian Marxism, Or 'Theoretical Practice', Entering Closely Into Questions Of Epistemology And Of The Theory And Practice Of The Historian. Around This Detailed Polemic, Thompson Develops A Constructive View Of An Alternative, Socialist Tradition, Empirical And Selfcritical In Method, And Fully Open To The Creative Practice Evidenced By History A Tradition Sharply Opposed To Much That Now Passes As 'Marxism'. In Converging Shafts Of Close Analysis And Swiftian Irony, The Author Defoliates Althusser'S Arcane, Rationalist Rhetoric And Reinstates 'Historicism', 'Empiricism', 'Moralism' And 'Socialist Humanism' In A Different Marxist Inheritance.The Title Of This Essay Echoes The Poverty Of Philosophy, Marx'S Annihiliating Attack On Proudhon, Which, Like Engels' Antiduhring, Is A Work Read Long After Its Subject Has Been Consigned To Oblivion.
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- Q: What is the page count of 'The Poverty of Theory'? A: This book has three hundred three pages. It provides a detailed critique of Althusserian Marxism and explores the philosophy of history.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book is available in paperback binding. It offers a more affordable and flexible option compared to hardcover books.
- Q: Who is the author of 'The Poverty of Theory'? A: The author of this book is Edward P. Thompson. He is well-known for his contributions to historical scholarship and Marxist theory.
- Q: How do I read 'The Poverty of Theory'? A: You can read this book like any standard paperback. It is suitable for anyone interested in history, philosophy, and Marxism.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in Marxist theory? A: Yes, this book can be suitable for beginners. However, it may also challenge readers with its detailed critique of established ideas.
- Q: What themes are explored in this book? A: This book explores themes of history, epistemology, and Marxist critique. It discusses the significance of empirical and self-critical methods.
- Q: How should I store 'The Poverty of Theory' to keep it in good condition? A: Store this book in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps prevent damage to the pages and binding.
- Q: Can I clean the cover of this book? A: Yes, you can lightly dust the cover with a soft cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions as they can damage the cover.
- Q: What if I receive a damaged copy of the book? A: If you receive a damaged copy, you should contact the seller for a return or exchange. Most sellers have a return policy for such issues.
- Q: Does this book have any special features? A: The book is noted as a used book in good condition. It may contain previous owner's notes or markings.
- Q: Is there a specific audience for this book? A: Yes, the book is primarily aimed at scholars, historians, and students of Marxism. Its detailed analysis appeals to those interested in academic discourse.
- Q: What makes this book different from other Marxist literature? A: This book critiques Althusserian Marxism, offering an alternative perspective. It emphasizes historicism and empirical methods, contrasting with more dogmatic views.
- Q: Are there any notable critiques included in this book? A: Yes, the book contains a major critique of Althusser's theories. It engages deeply with questions of epistemology and historical practice.
- Q: How does this book connect to the works of Marx and Engels? A: The title references Marx's 'The Poverty of Philosophy' and critiques contemporary interpretations of Marxism. It seeks to revive a more humanist approach.
- Q: Is this book recommended for advanced readers? A: Yes, advanced readers will appreciate the in-depth analysis and critical engagement with complex theories. It may be challenging but rewarding.