Marcuse's social theory - the speculative critique of industrial civilisation

Abstract

Marcuse's publications, from his early days in Germany to his last studies in the U.S.A., are examined to provide an outline of his social theory. Some biographical elements are included, and his works are located in the concerns of the Institute of Social Research, and the rise of fascism and prospects for socialism in the 1930's. It is suggested that in his pre-1950 publications Marcuse is offering an attempt to develop Hegel and Marx, and a form of critique which counterposes radical alternatives to existing social reality. His descriptions of philosophy, culture, science, social reality and social change, are examined, and often found to be inadequately detailed in a variety of ways. His work from 1950 forms a critique of industrial civilisation that examines cultural and social structures, and psychological and social psychological developments with reference to work by Freud. His views of science and industry could be developed by looking at the social Construction of science. He enlarges upon some of the speculative areas within Freud’s metapsychology and instinct theory, and offers an attempt to link this view of psychic process with the development of industrial civilisation. The two "models of man" that this contains are interesting but inadequately theorised. In his views of art he offers links between aestheticism, artistic creation, social theory, and radical alternatives, which repay analysis. Overall Marcuse offers challenges to views of social theory and social reality which are important but problematic in conceptualisation and detail.

More information

Identifiers

Catalogue record

Export record