Contrapaganda: Essays in a Thinking Resistance

Philosophy, Cultural Criticism

"For the whole of modernity thus far, we have relied upon art to counter the 'false consciousness.' But with the advent of information as the general lingua franca of politics, economics, and the technical and applied sciences, we require a different response; one that does not seek to overcome through transcendence, as did art, but rather seeks the immediate and consistent confrontation of the face to face and at each turn. Only then may we regain the practical wisdom of both truth and lie alike."

In his ninth volume of essays, social philosopher G.V. Loewen presents the counterpoint of politics and art with a thoroughgoing analysis of how they can function to both support and sabotage one another. The conception of the hero is especially important to this contradictory relationship.

Including titles such as "Joan of Arkham," "Littoralism," "Unusual Suspects," and "17 is the New 70," an essay which refers to the turning away from the world by virtually absorbed youth, as well as including a unique analysis of online harm groups, Contrapaganda will challenge many, if not all, our prejudices and visions alike.

Author Bio: G.V. Loewen is the author of 67 books on ethics, education, aesthetics, health, religion, and social theory, and has also written fiction. A professor for two decades, he is the chief research officer for IEC, Inc., a digital health and wellness corporation.