The book explores the decline of the American school system at the end of the twentieth century, comparing it to the broken vessels of the Old Testament. Wexler identifies 'holy sparks' of divine inspiration within this decline, suggesting that a spiritual reawakening is present in late twentieth-century culture. He argues that recognizing and nurturing these sparks in children and schools is essential for revitalizing education and securing a better future. The work draws on cultural criticism, social theory, and religious tradition to support its themes.
Academic practitioners of social psychology have traditionally adopted a liberal position against the extremes of capitalist and socialist ideology. But recently this middle position has become extremely precarious, and the fundamental crisis in social psychology can no longer be ignored. The purpose of this book is to repair the severed connection between social psychology, the culture of everyday life and the structure of society, along the lines of the Frankfurt School's critique of knowledge. Philip Wexler places both conventional social psychology and the emergence of an alternative in their historical context, revealing the ideological character of conventional social psychology and emphasizing the social basis of an alternative. He describes the foundations of this alternative, critical psychology, by analysis of theory and research on questions of self, social interaction and intimate or personal relations. This analysis proceeds through an historical and conceptual critique of concepts and paradigms, toward their social-cultural basis, and then back again to an alternative paradigm. In presenting a coherent theoretical social psychology, and by introducing Marxist categories such as commodity fetishism, exploitation and alienation, the author enables social psychologists to overcome their cultural isolation.
The book examines Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson's profound social ideas and activism, highlighting his role in fostering a global Jewish renaissance and advocating for various social issues, including education and women's empowerment. It contrasts his socio-mystical worldview with Max Weber's concept of capitalism, presenting Schneerson's teachings as a transformative approach to addressing societal challenges. This volume distills a wealth of Schneerson's writings and talks, offering an engaging and relevant exploration of his vision for a more dignified and joyful society.
The Social Theory in Education Primer shows how classical sociology sets the frame for theory and research in education. Three major paradigms are explained in their historical context, and are used as a key to making sense of contemporary work that understands education from a sociological point of view. The central classical theorists considered are seen both in their own context, and also as the founders of the major movements that have continuing influence. The social theories of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber are used to frame and orient concepts for the different models of contemporary work. This primer is essential reading for courses devoted to social theory and education; sociology of education; social foundations of education; history of education; history of sociology; sociological theory; and sociology of knowledge.
Philip Wexler explores the resurgence of spirituality through the lens of critical theory and social psychology. Drawing on his expertise, he delves into how contemporary society is re-engaging with spiritual practices and beliefs, highlighting the significance of this revival in modern life. Wexler's analysis offers insights into the interplay between spirituality and social dynamics, making a compelling case for the importance of spiritual exploration in today's world.
After a long career of government service as a TechnicalInformation Specialist, Phil retired from the Toxicology andEnvironmental Health Information Program of the National Libraryof Medicine, an arm of the National Institutes of Health, in 2018. Hehas edited and authored numerous books and journal papers in thefield of toxicology.
The Sad Parade is a collection of sixty-six prose poems by Philip Wexler. Philip Wexler, originally from Brooklyn, New York but a long-time resident of Bethesda, Maryland, has written poetry his entire adult life, with some 170 magazine publications, including prose poems, to his credit. He has also dabbled in short fiction. Phil has organized a number of spoken word series in suburban Maryland, most recently at Glen Echo Park. Retired from a career in federal service at the National Library of Medicine, he has also written and edited technical works related to toxicology. In addition to writing, Phil also enjoys working as a non-commercial mosaic artist.
Exploring the dynamic landscape of 21st-century religion, this collection of essays examines how spiritual practices, particularly within the Jewish mystical tradition and Habad Hasidism, challenge traditional divides between the old and new, and religion and secularism. The authors, notable scholars, advocate for a radical interdisciplinarity that integrates indigenous Hasidic perspectives, addressing contemporary cultural and scientific crises. This work emphasizes the transformative power of lived religion and its relevance in today's society.
Focusing on the ideological critique of the new sociology of education, this book emphasizes the importance of understanding knowledge as a collective product shaped by social and historical contexts. It advocates for a deeper comprehension of university knowledge to transform contemporary social issues, suggesting that this understanding can serve as a valuable resource for societal change.
Inspired by the woodblock print series by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, this collection features 500 poems that explore the moon through the author's unique lens. Each poem draws from a variety of influences, including personal experiences, dreams, folklore, and scientific musings, creating a diverse tapestry of reflections. The connections to the moon may not always be clear, inviting readers to engage deeply and interpret the meanings at their own pace. This work encourages patience and contemplation, offering a rich and intricate journey through lunar themes.
