Books by Barry Smart

The author of this work contends that an important responsibility of social enquiry is to engage critically with the moral difficulties and ethical dilemmas which have arisen with modernity. He discusses the work of theorists including Foucault, Beck, Derrida, Giddens and Levinas.

A wide-ranging, detailed and critical analysis of Western consumerism and its globalization, from one of the most respected names in the field today.

Explores the key issues that arise in debates over modernity and postmodernity. It aims to provide students with an accessible introduction to both the contentious notion of postmodernity and the major themes and issues addressed in associated debates over the limits of modernity.

Examines the relevance of Foucault's work for developing an understanding of those issues which lie beyond the limits of Marxist theory and analysis - issues such as 'individualising' forms of power, power-knowledge relations, the rise of 'the social', and the associated socialisation of politics.

Focuses on the analysis of the relations of power and knowledge and modes of objectification through which human beings are made subjects; and addresses controversial issues concerning the state and resistance to power.

Examines the social and economic processes which have shaped and continue to shape life today. It also provides critical assessments of the various "modern" and "postmodern" thinkers who have sought to explain these processes.

Addressing a number of prominent sports and sport stars, this book demonstrates the economic and cultural factors that have contributed to the popularity of sport stars. It also examines issues such as race and gender, the impact of professionalization, growing media coverage, and the role of agents.