Adorno: The Stars Down to Earth and Other Essays on the Irrational in Culture (Routledge Classics) [Paperback]

Theodor Adorno (Author), Stephen Crook (Editor)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0415105684 | ISBN-13: 978-0415105682 | Publication Date: December 23, 1994

A collection of key articles on the irrational in mass culture, relevant to the understanding of phenomena such as astrology and New Age cults, the power of neo-fascist propaganda and the psychological basis of popular culture, showing Theodor Adorno at his brilliant and maddening best.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

These four essays, originally written between the late 1930s and mid-1950s, examine significant instances of what Adorno calls "irrational" systems of thought in contemporary culture. He analyzes such phenomena as occultism, anti-Semitism, and the relationship between anti-Semitism and fascist thinking. His analysis illustrates common elements in all the systems examined. The lead article, "The Stars Down to Earth," is a content analysis of the astrology column of the Los Angeles Times during a visit Adorno made to the United States in 1953; it sets the tone for the other essays. What is particularly clear from Adorno's examination is the subtle and manipulative nature of such beliefs. The resurgence of extreme religious and political organizations, and the difficulty with which certain patterns of thought seem to die, illustrates the extent to which those ideas have penetrated our culture and the dangers they still hold. Editor Crook's lead-ins to the essays are useful. Recommended for all collections of the history and sociology of contemporary culture and mass movements.
Terry Skeats, Bishop's Univ. Lib., Lennoxville, Quebec
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Library Binding edition.

Review

'There is no question of the contemporary importance and relevance of these essays. T. W. Adorno is one of the great critics of the role of irrational authoritarianism in contemporary society.' Douglas Kellner

'This collection demonstrates the continuing relevance of Adorno's work to the analysis and understanding of modern times. A brilliant contribution to the sociology of racism, anti-Semitism and popular culture.' - Bryan S. Turner, co-editor, The Penguin Dictionary of Sociology

'Theodor Adorno returns from the grave to deliver this timely warning about the dangers of superstition.' Review --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 192 pages
• Publisher: Routledge (December 23, 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0415105684
• ISBN-13: 978-0415105682
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.4 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,709,718 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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