This book is a critical exploration of activist scholarship and the harm it has caused. Author Helen Pluckrose argues that this brand of scholarship, which privileges subjective experience over objective evidence, has led to division and conflict rather than understanding and progress. She provides detailed case studies to illustrate how activist scholars have distorted important discussions around race, gender, and identity, often causing real harm in the process. ultimately, she makes a compelling argument for returning to traditional values of reason and objectivity as foundations for meaningful discourse.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for anyone interested in critical thinking and the problems with activist scholarship. It provides a detailed examination of how this type of scholarship has gone awry, often causing real harm in the process. If you’re looking for a reasoned argument against activist tactics and ideology, then Cynical Theories is definitely worth reading.
Pros :
- Pluckrose provides detailed case studies that illustrate the harm caused by activist scholarship.
- She makes a compelling argument for returning to traditional values of reason and objectivity.
- The book is well written and easy to read.
Cons :
- The author’s tone is dry and unengaging.
- The book is repetitious and largely unsubstantiated.
- It takes a very conservative perspective that may be unpalatable to some readers.
Learn more about the author
Helen Pluckrose is a lecturer in the humanities department at Aberystwyth University in Wales. She holds a Ph.D. in English from Warwick University and has published extensively on topics including postmodernity, contemporary fiction, critical theory, and feminist thought.
Reader Reviews
“Pluckrose makes a powerful case against activist scholarship, and her arguments are well-supported by evidence. This is an important book for anyone interested in the current state of academia and how we can move forward.”
“This is a must-read for anyone interested in the current state of academia. Pluckrose provides insightful and scathing criticism of activist scholarship, while also providing clear alternatives. A timely and important book.”
“Pluckrose’s book is a much-needed voice in today’s society. It provides an honest, critical examination of activist scholarship and the damage it has done to important discussions around race, gender, and identity. Her writing is clear and concise, making this an engaging read for anyone interested in these topics.”
“This book is a breath of fresh air! It offers a much-needed critique of activist scholarship, which has become far too dominant in our universities. Pluckrose makes a strong case for relying on reason and evidence rather than subjective experience as the basis for meaningful discourse. A must read for anyone interested in higher education.”
