Contemporary Cultural Theory: An Introduction
University College London Press,
London viii + 196 pp, 1994
Korean edition: Han-Teut Publishing,
Seoul, 327 pp, 1996
Australian edition: Allen and Unwin,
Sydney, ix + 148 pp., 1991
This lucid and concise introduction to cultural theory brings a much-needed sense of historical and theoretical scale to the growth of cultural studies. Unlike other introductions the author deals directly with the politico-institutional context and historical background to the development of theory. By identifying six alternative paradigms in cultural studies - utilitarianism, culturalism, marxism, structuralism, feminism and postmodernism - and exploring the socio-discursive contexts within which each of these has developed, the book provides the essential grounding for a full understanding of current debates within the subject.
Determinedly introductory in approach and content, and as a rigorous and accessible guide to the often tricky manoeuvres of social and cultural theorists in recent years, Contemporary Cultural Theory will be invaluable to all students studying the many disciplines now informed by cultural theory.
'a ... careful and usable guide. It provides what its title suggests: clear and well-documented summaries ... Milner is ... a concise, self-effacing cicerone' - Stefan Collini, Fellow of Clare Hall, Cambridge, Times Literary Supplement
'an accurate, intelligent, and often elegant guide to theory ... Milner combines essential information with a stimulating and important critique ... Highly recommended' - Choice
'Milner's ... head and his prose remain clear and generously objective ... he addresses issues that are crucial to our particular time, and felt acutely ... by anyone involved in culture' - Judith Armstrong, Reader in Russian, University of Melbourne, Australian Book Review