Critical Theory and Independent Living

Description

In this presentation, I will discuss some of the ideas presented in my new book Critical Theory and Independent Living (currently in production, forthcoming in the summer of 2024 from Manchester University Press / MUP). The book is part of MUP’s ‘Critical Theory and Contemporary Society’ series. It is my second contribution to the series, following Critical Theory and Disability: A Phenomenological Approach, and it is also a product of my 24-year engagement with the Independent Living movement and philosophy. The book highlights some of the ways in which present-day developments in Critical Theory and present-day developments in Independent Living advocacy and thinking can complement and strengthen each other. The resultant synergies can help advance understandings of contemporary society and campaigns for social justice.

I argue that Independent Living can strengthen present-day Critical Theory by making the latter attentive to the wisdom of people who fight for – and use – supports that enable everyday living while maximising self-determination. The result is a bold yet complex demand for a specific form inter-dependence – a freedom-enabling inter-dependence that I term ‘egalitarian care’. I also argue that Critical Theory can strengthen the Independent Living movement and analytic paradigm by facilitating the latter’s engagement with studies of biopower (and welfarism), analyses of psychopower (and neoliberal marketisation), and feminist critiques of the family (and familialism). The ensuing conceptual and advocacy synergies are explored by looking at Independent Living’s relationships with three key organising principles of social welfare – the state, the market, and the family.

Period	4 Sept 2024
Event title	Leeds Disability Studies Conference (2024)
Event type	Conference
Location	Leeds, United KingdomShow on map
Degree of Recognition	International