Theory beyond theory

Journal/Book: Theor Psychol. 2000; 10: 2455 Teller Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA. Sage Publications Inc. 71-77.

Abstract: Drawing on Toulmin's (1990) portrayal of the 'dual trajectory of Modernity', the predominant trajectory being tied to Cartesian rationalism and the other to Renaissance humanism, it is suggested that much of contemporary theoretical psychology appears to be congruent with widespread efforts to reappropriate the latter tradition and thereby to 'humanize' its inquiries. This apparent congruence notwithstanding, it is also suggested that much of theoretical psychology, in its very theoreticism, remains wedded to the Cartesian project. By moving toward what is here termed a 'poetics of the Other', there emerges the opportunity for a portion of the field not only to further extricate itself from the gravitational pull of theory, as ordinarily conceived, but also to explore modes of thinking and writing more closely tied to the humanities. 'Theory' remains viable from this point of view, but in a different way than that which is generally operative in current endeavors.

Note: Article Freeman M, Coll Holy Cross, Dept Psychol, Worcester,MA 01610 USA

Keyword(s): cosmopolis; hermeneutic; modernity; narrative; poetics

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