This new, updated edition provides a lively, lucid and compelling
introduction to contemporary controversies over the self and
self-identity in the social sciences and humanities. In an accessible
and concise format, the book ranges from classical intellectual
traditions of symbolic interactionism, psychoanalysis and Foucauldian
theory, through feminism and postfeminism, to postmodernism and the
mobilities paradigm.
With characteristic verve and clarity, Anthony Elliott explores the
relationship between power, identity and personhood, connecting varied
theoretical debates directly to matters of contemporary relevance and
urgency, such as identity politics, the sociology of personal
relationships and intimacy, and the politics of sexuality. This edition
also includes a new chapter on the digital revolution, which situates
the self and work/life transformations within the context of AI,
Industry 4.0, advanced robotics and accelerating automation.
Offering thoughtful entry points to a rich and complex literature, along
with robust critical responses to each theory, Concepts of the Self
will continue to be an invaluable text for students of social and
political theory, sociology, social psychology, cultural studies, and
gender studies.
