Books in the Live Theory series

Offering an account of the work and thought of Judith Butler, this guide is meant for those studying this pioneering thinker within the context of sociology, cultural studies, literary criticism, feminism, and philosophy. It explores her contributions to gender theory, and her impact on how the discipline of gender studies has been shaped.

Offers an introduction to Alain Badiou's work and thought, laying out the central themes of his major works, including "Being and Event" and "Logics of Worlds". This book explores the fundamental questions through which Badiou's philosophy constantly evolves and identifies the key turning points in his ideas.

Jean Baudrillard's work on how contemporary society is dominated by the mass media has become extraordinarily influential. He is notorious for arguing that there is no real world, only simulations which have altered what events mean, and that only violent symbolic exchange can prevent the world becoming a total simulation.

Slavoj Zizek is undoubtedly one of the world's leading cultural critics. His witty, psychoanalytically-inspired analyses of contemporary society have almost single-handedly revived the notion of ideology.

Widely regarded as one of America's most important cultural theorists, Fredric Jameson has been at the forefront of the field of literary and cultural studies since the early 1970s. This book offers an introduction to the work of this important thinker. It provides an account of Jameson's important contributions to Critical Theory.

A key resource for anyone studying this pioneering thinker within the context of sociology, cultural studies, feminism and science studies.

This volume provides a clear and informative introduction to one of the most important and influential European writers working today. It includes exploration of Cixous' theory of feminine writing, an interview discussing her influences and inspirations, and her thoughts on the nature of writing.

This innovative introductory text clearly explains the most complex ideas of Julia Kristeva - one of the most influential critics and theorists of contemporary culture.