Society and Social Pathology

This book offers one of the most comprehensive studies of social pathology to date, following a cross-disciplinary and methodologically innovative approach. It is written for anyone concerned with understanding current social conditions, individual health, and how we might begin to collectively conceive of a more reconciled postcapitalist world.
Drawing reference from the most up-to-date studies, Smith crosses disciplinary boundaries from cognitive science and anthropology to critical theory, systems theory and psychology. Opening with an empirical account of numerous interlinked carises from mental health to the physiological effects of environmental pollution, Smith argues that mainstream sociological theories of pathology are deeply inadequate. Smith introduces an alternative critical conception of pathology that drills to the core of how and why society is deeply ailing. The book concludes with a detailed account of why a progressive and criticalvision of social change requires a holistic view of individual and societal transformation. Such a view is grounded in the awareness that a sustainable transition to postcapitalism is ultimately a many-sided (social, individual, and structural) healing process.

Offers one of the most systematic and comprehensive studies of social pathology to date Undertakes a methodologically innovative approach that pulls research and data from a wealth of qualitative and quantitative sources, providing a deep and comprehensive account Appeals to scholars, students and engaged citizens interested in critical theory, sociology, philosophy of history and science, social psychology, humanistic psychology, and political theory

Autorentext

R.C. Smith is an academic interested in extensive, crossdisciplinary critical research and study. Focusing in particular on a research program that spans the intersections of social science, natural science, humanities, and history, Smith is the author of over 100 articles and several books. You can find him on Twitter: @rcsmith_.

Inhalt

1. Introduction.-2. An Alternative Conception of Social Pathology.-3. History, Systems of Domination and Moral Norms.-4. The Individual in Capitalistic Society.-5. Emancipatory Politics and Social Transformation.