Beyond binaries

Journal/Book: Theor Psychol. 1999; 9: 2455 Teller Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA. Sage Publications Inc. 399-406.

Abstract: It is argued that Marxism is most useful for radical psychology in negative terms-as a form of critique. It has much less to offer as a positive theoretical programme. The binaries which make up Marxist epistemology (individual-social, culture-economy, base-superstructure, truth-falsity, real-illusory) constrain creative thought and lead to some by now predictable cul-de-sac. The Foucauldian emphasis on studying onto-formative practices is more useful. This claim is illustrated through a critical examination of Foster's construction of the discursive and extra-discursive, Osterkamp's premises regarding human nature, and the view of false consciousness developed by Augoustinos.

Note: Editorial Wetherell M, Open Univ, Fac Social Sci, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes MK7 6AA, Bucks, ENGLAND

Keyword(s): ideology; Marxism; post-structuralism; racism; realism; subjectivity

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