Mike Cole considers the origins and developments within the evolution of Marxist theory and postmodern theory. He analyses how Marxism and postmodernism are articulated within the sociology of education since its inception up to the present. He situates it all within the context of the debate about globalization and the future and asks: Is globalization a new phenomenon? Is it a postmodern phenomenon? Can it be a force for the good? Is Marxism the only viable alternative in the future of the planet? and What is the role of education in all this?
This timely book will be of interest to academics and students interested in educational theory, the sociology of education, sociology, politics, philosophy and critical theory.
We live in a world where thousands make massive profits out of the labours of others, while those others exist as wage slaves, millions of whom die of starvation and poverty-related illness every year. The fundamental aim of Marxism is the overthrow of the anarchic, exploitative and eco-destructive system of world capitalism and its replacement by world socialism and equality. To build a socialist world is a task of gargantuan proportions, but one that Marxists believe is eminently achievable.
This book addresses some of these challenges from within educational theory. The key theoretical issues addressed are:
utopian socialism
poststructuralism and postmodernism
transmodernism
globalisation, neo-liberalism and environmental destruction
the new imperialism
critical race theory.
Marxism and Educational Theory compellingly and informatively propels the debate forward in the pursuit of that socialist future. In that quest, suggestions are made to connect theoretical issues with the more practical concerns of the school and the classroom.
With a specially written Foreword by Peter McLaren, this timely book will be of interest to academics and students interested in educational theory, the sociology of education, sociology, politics, philosophy and critical theory.
