Value Theory In Philosophy And Social Science (rle Social Theory) (routledge Library Editions: Social Theory)

The annual Conferences on Value Inquiry bring together philosophers, scientists and humanists to discuss the many facets of the problem of value in the experience of the individual and in contemporary society. One of the criteria in choosing papers for the Conference is the ability to stimulate discussion and clarification. The papers in the present volumes show deep concern with the problems and responsibilities in making choices of value. Timely and original, this collection of essays from the leading figures in their fields throws new and valuable light on the significance and future of flânerie. The flâneur is usually identified as the 'man of the crowd' of Edgar Allen Poe and Charles Baudelaire, and as one of the heroes of Walter Benjamin's Arcades Project. The flâneur's activities of strolling and loitering are mentioned increasingly frequently in sociology, cultural studies and art history, but rarely is the debate developed further. The Flâneur is the first book to develop the debate beyond Baudelaire and Benjamin This volume provides a fascinating perspective on the social sciences through its examination of the leading proponents, their ideas and careers. It includes useful suggestions for further reading. All the great names in the history of the subject are here - Freud, Marx, Weber, Adam Smith and so on - along with many less prominent but nevertheless important thinkers.