Reading list

Marx, & Engels, F. (1889). Capital : A Critical Analysis of Capitalist Production. Wordsworth Classics of World Literature. [Chapters 1, 3, & 4] SOLO

Freire. (1996). Pedagogy of the oppressed (New revised edition.). Penguin. [Chapter 1] SOLO

Adorno, & Horkheimer, M. (1986). Dialectic of enlightenment (2nd ed.). Verso. [Ch 1]

Questions

1. In the age of globalization, does Marx's analysis of capitalism and class struggle need to be adapted to address the complexities of a globalized economy? Argue for or against the relevance of Marx's ideas in a globalized world.
2. Commodity fetishism, as discussed by Marx, is said to contribute to consumer culture. Is consumer culture inherently problematic, or can it coexist with a more equitable society? Present arguments for and against consumer culture in a Marxist context
3. In the context of Critical Theory, critically analyze the impact of modern digital media on political news consumption and public opinion. Do digital media platforms primarily shape public discourse, influence political ideologies, and challenge power structures, or do they predominantly report on public opinion and current affairs that have already occurred?

What is Critical Theory?

• Critical Theory is an interdisciplinary approach to understanding and critiquing society, culture, and power structures.
• It seeks to uncover hidden assumptions, challenge dominant narratives, and promote social change.
• Critical Theory often examines issues related to power, inequality, ideology, and social justice.
• Critical Theory has practical application or impact in mind.